Back during the 1999 Women's World Cup, I was never sure that Michelle Akers quite got her due.  Mia Hamm was the darling of the team, America's Sweetheart. Brandi Chastain did the sports bra thing that became an iconic moment. Julie Foudy went on to be a successful broadcaster, and on it goes. But I always thought Akers was the glue, holding everything together. And, man, could that woman play.

Akers is in retirement now ... and she needs a bit of help. Her farm near Atlanta was flooded, and the Atlanta Beat is partnering with an on-line auction to help restore the farm.  Details are here at the Beat's website.