Importance of NSL comes into focus during its historic opening week

The past week in Canadian women's soccer has been tremendous and unprecedented. Even after 15 years in sports journalism, I've never had the opportunity to cover this level of women's soccer at home. 

Along with the stories of players, press conferences, and the plans to cover the newly launched Northern Super League, there were also emotions on all fronts. More than once, a league staff member, player, media person, and so many fans admitted they felt emotional at various times. There were also very poignant moments on the pitch. 

At the first game in NSL history last Wednesday, Calgary Rise FC's Sonia O'Neill walked out onto the pitch for the pre-match ceremonies with her toddler daughter on her hip. There are only a few moms playing in the league, but the choice to do this is impactful. 

There's the love and appreciation of the beautiful game, but there's also the happiness about this league actually existing and the opportunities it creates.

There were some clear rising stars like Holly Ward of Vancouver Rise, who just flew up the left side every time and presented as a dangerous attacker from the first whistle. She didn't score but the joy that erupted in BC Place when her teammate Quinn did was phenomenal. 

That, coupled with the impact of play-by-play announcer and friend Signa Butler's voice, had me almost tear up at that moment. I think I've watched that goal about 20 times, and will probably watch it 20 more. 

WATCH | Rise FC's Quinn scores first goal in NSL history:

Quinn leads Vancouver Rise FC over Calgary Wild FC in inaugural NSL match

There is something that feels particularly poetic about Quinn being the first goalscorer in the NSL. This is a league built by a storied Canadian player, Diana Matheson,