Also want to add two things:
(1) Grant Wahl didn't have to interact with me on that bus that night. He didn't have to listen to me talk about how started covering the Reign. After all - I was nobody, only 2 years into this, and well....he was the definition of football journalism, especially in America. But one thing that is abundantly clear through all the tributes - Grant Wahl uplifted everyone in the footy community, regardless of experience - from the bloggers to the 20+ year professional. He appreciated all voices that covered this beautiful game. Even the ones that disagreed with him. He wanted to elevate everyone to be a better version of themselves. Everyone should live by that example. I know I will no matter what.
(2) One of the last things Grant said on his podcast/substack was describing how he was sick and exhausted and overworked covering the world cup. A thing most people really don't seem to grasp is how grueling it is to cover the world cup. You barely sleep, eat, and psychologically, I remember being disappointed in myself the entire time because I felt I wasn't doing enough. I had terrible imposter syndrome. By the time I came back, I suffered some of the worst panic attacks of my life. And most of us, we don't have the same financial backing or support, but we are still dedicating the same amount of time to tell stories at the world cup with the best resources we have.
So all I ask is - be kind to one another and appreciate all voices and take care of yourself. Because you never know when a voice will disappear.
