On April 11, 2010, the Philadelphia Independence Women’s Professional Soccer team played its inaugural match in front of over 6,000 fans at West Chester University’s John A. Farrell Stadium. The long-awaited return of professional women’s soccer to the area was a momentous occasion for the town of West Chester, the school, and women’s athletics.

Mayor Carolyn Comitta, the first female mayor in West Chester history, has been an avid supporter of the Independence this season both as a town official and a fan. After participating in the opening ceremonies of the inaugural game, Mayor Comitta has been at nearly every home match cheering on the team. She calls the team an “asset to the community” and believes the players are “genuinely lovely individuals.”

We sat down with the Mayor to hear her thoughts on the Philadelphia Independence as the newest addition to the West Chester community. Check out her take on the town’s first professional sports team!

How is the Independence experience different from other professional sports?
Everything in life is about relationships...business, politics, personal development...and that’s what the Independence does differently. Unlike other professional sports teams, who sometimes feel like they are at an arm’s length, these world-class athletes are so accessible. It’s the up close and personal aspect of the environment and the connection between the athletes and the spectators, the family friendly atmosphere, and a unique opportunity to gather with friends and family. There is personal interaction between the players and their fans- you see the same faces and you build a familiarity.

Beyond the games, the Independence has been amazing with their outreach into the community. The Independence is nurturing a quality relationship with the whole model...from the games to the community outreach. That’s why it’s special, that’s why we want to come back.

Is there a specific moment at any the games that sticks out as being the most memorable for you?
The whole experience is a sum of the parts, but I think my most memorable moment was actually after the first game. After being absolutely starstruck by their skill and talent on the field, I was able to sit and talk with several players individually. The conversation I remember most clearly is with goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc. She was so genuine, and she said to me “how can we get involved with the community. How can we inspire the girls in West Chester to dream big. It’s what we want to do, just tell us how.” Her sincerity and her spirit touched me, and at that moment I thought this is a good thing for West Chester. Most importantly, this is a good thing for our children.

How important is it for there to be positive female role models for kids?
I think it is equally important for there to be positive female and positive male role models, but I think it’s a mater of visibility and access. There aren’t as many for the girls yet, and whether it be sports, politics, education, we need strong women on a local and national stage so that girls are exposed to all the amazing possibilities for them to succeed. The Independence players are talented, beautiful, strong women who have chased a dream, made healthy choices, and embraced their gifts. They are putting an approachable, can-do spirit out there that young girls can connect with, and even though everyone won’t necessarily be a soccer star, these players are examples of what can happen when you work hard and go for it.

Any parting advice?
Lead with your gifts and leave the world a little bit better than you found it. This team and organization seem to embody the spirit of that philosophy, and besides from being a ton of fun, the Independence really is a great thing for this community. We need to support these women on the field so they can continue to do wonderful things off the field.

Mayor Comitta will have the opportunity to watch the Independence next on June 26th when they return home to face regional rival Washington Freedom. To take part in the experience, visit www.independencetix.com!