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Bethany Balcer Steps Away from Soccer to Prioritize Mental Health

The Racing Louisville forward cites a loss of joy and identity in the sport, expressing plans to return with renewed passion.

Jun 16, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Reign FC forward Bethany Balcer (8) controls the ball against Portland Thorns FC during the first half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo
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Overview

  • Bethany Balcer, a forward for Racing Louisville FC, announced she is temporarily stepping away from professional soccer to focus on her mental health.
  • Balcer shared that she has struggled over the past year and a half with losing her identity and joy in the game due to the pressures of being a professional athlete.
  • She remains on Racing Louisville's active roster as an excused absence and has not formally taken mental health leave under the NWSL's collective bargaining agreement.
  • Balcer, a vocal advocate for mental health, expressed confidence in returning to soccer with renewed energy and passion in the future.
  • The 2019 NWSL Rookie of the Year has scored 42 career goals and was traded to Racing Louisville from Seattle Reign in August 2024.