Hamm, other soccer stars attend World Cup watch party in Chapel Hill
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. -- It's been 16 years since the U.S. Women's Soccer Team won the World Cup, but, win or lose, fans in Chapel Hill had a night they will never forget Monday.
Former world soccer champions, Olympic gold medalists, and UNC Tar Heels, Mia Hamm, Tisha Venturini-Hoch, and Kristine Lilly joined hundreds of fans for a World Cup watch party at Southern Village Green in Chapel Hill.
Hundreds of fans came from all over, such as Lisa Powell and her daughter Ava. They drove 10 hours from New Jersey just to meet the soccer champs.
"Mia and Kristine are my favorite," said Ava Powell.
Mary Alice Fox has been playing soccer since she was a little girl. She brought her old Mia Hamm jersey she's had since she was 8-years-old for Hamm to sign.
Grace Harding, 21, who is a long-time fan, said these women have been her role models growing up.
"Girls soccer wasn't very popular when we were playing so it's been a big inspiration for sure," said Harding.
"Knowing that were able to inspire them to dream bigger than they thought, we're grateful for that opportunity," said Hamm.
While the crowd and fans are always a good time, the soccer champs were happy to be visiting their old college town and to get another taste of this North Carolina heat.
"This weather is awesome! I'm loving this," said Venturini-Hoch.
