Dear Golden State Valkyries,

Thank you for filling my summer with so much joy. There is nothing more powerful, more inspiring, than watching an extraordinary group of women come together to make history.

From the very first game, I felt it, the sense of belonging, of community, that comes with being a Valkyries fan. It’s something I had been missing in sports, and suddenly it was here: connection, pride, and the magic of women’s sports. Ballhalla became more than an arena. It became a gathering place where I could share this joy with friends and family. Every game gave me something to look forward to, a reminder that I was part of something bigger than myself.

The energy inside Ballhalla is unlike anything else. I love cheering for the players and coaches, but my favorite moment is when the lights go down before the fourth quarter. The emcee calls for fans to raise their phones, and the arena begins to sparkle. Then comes the Bay Area roll call, voices rising, lights shining, a room full of people united in love for Valkyrie Violet and for women’s sports. In that moment, every twinkling light feels like a symbol of support and celebration, each one proof that we are here to uplift women. To me, there is no greater sight.

So thank you, Valkyries, for bringing us together, for being role models, and for giving us something so meaningful to cheer for. I am proud to stand with you, proud to witness history, and even prouder to dream about all that’s still to come.

With love and gratitude,
Claire