Imagine the thrill of scoring a game-changing goal, only to realize it's more than a victory—it's a heartfelt connection to a loved one lost. That's the powerful story behind Gift Monday's unforgettable moment with the Washington Spirit in the NWSL playoffs.
When Gift Monday netted the opening goal of the quarterfinal clash between the Washington Spirit and Racing Louisville, it wasn't just about pushing her team ahead. For beginners unfamiliar with the NWSL, this is the National Women's Soccer League, the top professional soccer league for women in the United States, where every match carries high stakes and emotional weight. But here's where it gets deeply personal and touching—this strike served as undeniable proof that her late father was right there beside her, cheering her on from beyond.
Just last week, Monday revealed that her father, Effiom Monday Akpan, had passed away. To honor her family, she took time off from Decision Day—the crucial final day of the regular season—to travel to Nigeria for the funeral services. In an interview with ESPN Africa, she opened up about how profoundly he shaped her life. He was her very first coach, the one who instilled in her the skills and mindset that define her today. She felt an overwhelming need to return to the field with her teammates, knowing that playing through grief was essential for her healing.
"He was my first coach. He made me who I am today. He trained me on how to keep believing and keep moving on, and if I didn’t come back and this goal didn’t happen, I might never forgive myself because I might feel like I’m still grieving," Monday shared. "But with this, I know my dad is with me and is giving me the strength to keep going. The goal is the proof."
This emotional breakthrough came in her inaugural NWSL season, where she's already left an indelible mark. She tallied eight goals during the regular season, including a hat trick that shattered records as the quickest one ever scored from the kickoff. For those new to soccer, a hat trick means scoring three goals in a single game, and this particular feat highlighted her explosive talent right from the start of the match.
On Instagram, Monday poured out her gratitude, emphasizing how her father was far more than a parent—he was her bedrock, the foundation of her entire being. "My dad was more than just a father – he was my foundation. His sacrifices, his hard work, and his quiet wisdom shaped the person I have become today," she posted. "Every value he instilled in me, humility, resilience, honesty, and faith in God – has guided me not only in life but also in my football career." (For context, football here refers to soccer, as it's commonly called outside the U.S.)
And this is the part most people miss—the way personal loss can fuel professional triumphs. As the Spirit clinched a spot in the semifinals through a dramatic penalty shootout at Audi Field, Monday is forging ahead with the comforting knowledge that her dad accompanies her every stride. You can read more about the Spirit's victory and their path forward here, with the next round kicking off this weekend.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is it fair to expect athletes to balance intense grief with the demands of a high-stakes career? Some might argue that taking time off, like Monday did, shows true dedication to family, while others could see it as a potential setback in a competitive league. What do you think—should players prioritize personal losses over team commitments, or does returning to the pitch help in the healing process? Share your opinions in the comments; I'd love to hear differing views and spark a discussion on this delicate topic!
