They captivated the nation for three weeks.  Hope Solo and Alex Morgan became part of the American vocabulary, the very hard forehead of Abby Wambach was recognized as America’s most dangerous weapon and the less-than-fairytale ending made the U.S. women’s national soccer team even more beloved—and more human.  The question remains—will people forget?  Will this international success story be a passing fad?  Once the NFL lockout is lifted soon—in less than a fortnight, probably—will soccer be forgotten again?

Since we judge everything in terms of social media statistics, be comforted in knowing that the 7,000+ tweets per second during the women’s World Cup Final were more than the royal wedding!  Take that, William and Kate.

Instead of worrying about grander questions, simply show your support as several of the U.S. women return to Rochester for a Women’s Professional Soccer clash on Wednesday.  The Western New York Flash, led by the starlet Morgan and the “villain” Marta, battle against magicJack (formerly the Washington Freedom), boasting Wambach, Megan Rapinoe, Shannon Boxx and Christie Rampone.  The Rochester Democrat & Chronicle just learned that Hope Solo, the American keeper who plays club for magicJack as well, won’t be in Rochester tomorrow, and Boxx and Rampone won’t take the field either.  Boo.  Also, via magicJack’s Twitter account, Wambach most likely won’t start but could enter as a substitute late in the match. 

Over 14,000 tickets have already been sold for the 7:30 p.m. match at Sahlen’s Stadium in Rochester (Nick Mendola and Mike Kirmse are calling the game on Fox Soccer Channel—a pretty big deal for two local announcers), so you won’t be the only one there to cheer on the returnees.  All seats have been sold out, but the Flash are selling “standing room only” tickets for $13 apiece, which can be purchased by calling (585) 454-5425 or visiting Sahlen’s Stadium.

If you’re more the emotional type, there’s an opportunity to greet Wambach, Morgan and Rapinoe at the Eastview Mall (Victor, NY) food court tomorrow at 2 p.m.  I know, the food court idea is a little bizarre—but sit back with a Charley’s Grilled Sub or some Famous Teriyaki (actually, never trust a place with “famous” in its name) and warmly welcome the new celebrities.  Unfortunately, autographs won’t be allowed.  Frankly, the athletes will be overtired from their national media appearances on Tuesday (Good Morning America, Letterman), but I’d still consider going to uncomfortably gawk at Alex Morgan.  There’s nothing wrong with that, right?  Right?  Her boyfriend probably wouldn’t approve.

How fortunate are we that these international superstars live and perform in our own backyard?  Take the opportunity to make the short ride out to Rochester for one or both of these events.