For three weeks this summer, much of the United States was captivated by what is regarded by many to be “the most beautiful game on earth.”

It wasn’t the U.S. Men’s Soccer team that was creating a buzz throughout social media networks worldwide, rather,  the U.S. Women’s National Team was the talk of the 2011 World Cup tournament in the host nation of Germany.

While it seemed like destiny for the USA to finish their run after defeating tournament favorite Brazil by hoisting the trophy, the women fell short losing 3-1 in penalty kicks to Japan.

Outside of a disappointing loss, it may be a positive experience in that more eyes are on the sport, specifically for women’s soccer.

Nick O’Shea, head coach of the Oakland’s women’s soccer team, believes that the recent popularity of the United States Women’s National Team can be traced back to previous success in prior World Cups.

“In 1999, when the World Cup was here and they won it, (there was) an explosion in young females wanting to participate, play more and take it more serious,” O’Shea said.

Throughout the summer, both Oakland men’s and women’s soccer teams have been holding soccer camps for children of all ages.

The engaging positive personalities of this United States women’s team like those of goalkeeper Hope Solo and forward Abby Wambach and many others, are also affecting youth interest by serving as role models to the potential stars of the future.

“The young females are embracing it,” O’Shea said. “Obviously when you have role models that you want to emulate, (that) will push them to work harder and play more.”

Coming off of the 2010 season with a record of 12-5-3 and going undefeated in conference play, the team still hasthings to build upon.

“We want to get better with the ball,” O’Shea said. “We want to become a more positional team and create over the course of the game instead of quick strikes and instead dominate possession.”

With a tough upcoming schedule and growing interest in the sport, there is hope that the future of women’s soccer will continue to shine brighter, not only on the ground of Oakland University, but nationwide.