Spectacular Things

“Regardless of players’ battles on the field and each country’s struggles off it, soccer endures.”

The Olympic match continues despite player injury and international strife, elucidating part of what makes soccer so meaningful to Liz, Mia, and especially Cricket. With its structure, consistency, and demand for both physical excellence and psychological fortitude, soccer offers them an escape from the chaos of life. Even during “struggles” on and off the field—interpersonal conflicts, loss and grief, and heartache—soccer’s endurance means the Lowe women always have something that brings them joy and unites them.

“The soccer dream is not over, she writes in the letter she leaves for her parents. I’ve just moved the goalposts.”

Liz’s optimistic outlook helps her maintain a growth mindset. She accepts that she’ll encounter obstacles that force her to adjust her plans, but she doesn’t give up or lose her sense of agency. By imparting this lesson to her daughters and embodying the message in her life choices, Liz helps Mia and Cricket develop the resilience and adaptability necessary for their success.

“To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.”

This motto plays an important role in Cricket’s character arc. It reveals what she values and what motivates her choices. It also shapes Cricket’s sense of identity: Her self-worth is tied to her efforts as an athlete. Cricket’s adoption of the exhortation as a mantra exemplifies What the Pursuit of Greatness Requires.