In this inspiring episode of Game Changers Athlete Edition, co-hosts Kortney Harmon and Julie Jones sit down with 17-year-old professional soccer player Katie Scott for a candid conversation about her rapid rise through the ranks—from a competitive hometown sports family to the Kansas City Current, Penn State, and the U.S. National Team. Katie shares her firsthand perspective on what it was like to grow up in an elite athletic household, the value of playing multiple sports, and how her parents’ support (and hands-off approach) shaped her journey.
Listeners will gain insight into the off-field habits that set Katie apart, including nutrition, recovery, and mental skills like the all-important “reset” for moving on from mistakes. Katie opens up about the challenges of injury setbacks, handling the pressure of high-level selection, and the importance of building relationships and a positive team culture. She also discusses leadership, the power of making a difference beyond stats, and the habits and mindset that helped her excel—even when she wasn’t in the starting lineup.
Whether you’re a student-athlete, parent, or coach, Katie’s maturity, gratitude, and wisdom will leave you motivated to approach your own journey with fresh perspective. Don’t miss this episode packed with real stories, mental strategies, and a reminder that greatness is built every day, on and off the field.
DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute professional coaching or mental health advice. Do not disregard, avoid, or delay obtaining advice from qualified professionals because of something you may have heard in an episode of Game Changers: Athlete Edition. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for professional coaching, mental performance, or medical advice. Please consult with qualified professionals for proper evaluation and guidance specific to your situation. Guests who speak on this podcast express their own opinions, experiences, and conclusions. Neither the Game Changers: Athlete Edition hosts nor any company providing support endorses or opposes any particular training, coaching, or treatment methods discussed in the episodes. They are not responsible for any actions or inactions of listeners based on the information presented. The strategies, tips, and information shared in this podcast are based on the hosts' experiences and professional expertise, but results may vary. The use of any information provided is solely at your own risk.
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Episode Transcript
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(00:35):
Welcome to Game Changers Athlete Edition. I'm Kortney
Harmon, a former Division 1 softball pitcher turned high performance
business coach who knows what it takes to translate athletic
mindset into real world success. And I'm Julie Jones, a
Hall of Famer and former Division 1 head coach with more than 20 years of
experience turned mental performance coach. Together we bridge the
(00:57):
gap between elite athletics and lifelong achievement, helping you
unlock your full potential on and off the field. This
podcast is your go to source for inspiration,
motivation, amazing guests, and actionable insights to
help you elevate your game. Welcome
back to another episode of Game Changers Athlete Edition.
(01:18):
And we're excited to welcome Katie Scott. This is like part two,
two of our last conversation. We had Katie's parents on
for the last episode and I'm so excited. I have
heard so much about Katie and at just the age of 17 years
old, Katie has accomplished what many athletes work their
entire career towards. Playing professionally with the Kansas City
(01:41):
Current, representing her country in international
competition, competing at the collegiate level with Penn
State. Katie, I am so excited
just to think of your remarkable journey and your perspective
to be joining us today. So thank you so much for taking the time out
of your busy schedule and your training schedule to talk with Julie and I
(02:02):
thank you. I'm happy to be here. Julie, you're so funny. You're like, you're like,
yeah, busy schedule. No,
I like until like two I'm really home
or like two 30ish. So like we get like all the work done on there
by like 9am and then get home by like 3
every day. So like, this is great. This worked perfectly.
(02:24):
Perfect. Well, not to mention that you're just in Georgia, right. With the US Team.
I mean. Yeah, right. Professionally. And then you're down with
U.S. soccer in Georgia, training with, with that team. And here
you're. Now you're back in Kansas City. So back and forth and back and
forth and, you know, balancing this all. But before we kick off, I
just want to throw out. So I've, I've been very privileged
(02:47):
to work with Katie through the International Soccer Club, which is
here in Northeast Ohio. And I
think Katie was, I don't know if you were 14 when I first
started. Maybe you're maybe 14 when I first started. Maybe just at 15.
Yeah. Because when you start with teams like you 15 or do you start. Yeah,
I think, I think, yeah, I think I started with you guys. Maybe you 15.
(03:10):
So. But we, we, you know, we, we, we do mental performance training.
They're one of my groups and they're amazing. Like, all these kids go, you know,
power five. So many of them do. And Katie, of course, is at the pinnacle
of this program. And I knew from the very, very
beginning that she was different, because when I would sit there and talk, she would
just look like this, right? She looked. She was
(03:32):
so, like, dialed in, and she didn't say a whole
lot, but then all of a sudden, I realized that she was dialed in
because she was just soaking up every little piece of information
that she could process into her performance.
So for us to be able to share this with athletes today is so
exciting. And the fact that she's playing professional soccer doesn't shock
(03:54):
me one single bit, because I knew from the very beginning that she
was special. So I'm excited to share Katie with our
audience. I'm excited to learn more about this journey
since internationals, through Penn State, through, you know,
international competition. Now to the pros. So I'm gonna be quiet
and let Kortney kick off with something that she wants to start with. A question,
(04:16):
look at, and then we'll let Katie just roll. What do
you say? What do you want to start? Court. You know, I want to
start. I'm going to start with the question to lead from last episode to
this episode, because we talk to your parents, and while we
talk to your parents about their perspective, I want your
perspective because you grew up with parents who understood
(04:38):
elite athletics, how it changed your.
And probably developed your focus. So talk to
me. I mean, you were an athletic household with brothers that were very
competitive. Talk to me about growing up in. I mean, you're
still. I love you. You're still growing up,
growing up in the idea of this household that
(05:00):
athletics was so prominen. And just kind of
walk me through what that was for you, as you kind of were. You're taking
it all in. Your dad played sports. Your mom was a gymnast. Your brothers were
playing. Give. Give me your perspective. Well, I think just
growing up, I always wanted to be like my brothers. I always wanted to, like,
be one of them. So I think seeing them all play the sports they
(05:21):
did, and then we'll see my older brother playing soccer, I just, like, always loved
the sport. Obviously, my dad did it, so he was always up to, like, go
train with me if I asked him to, or, like, do anything he wanted to.
I tried gymnastics. My mom did, but it didn't really work out. I did
it for, like, two weeks, and then I don't know what happened,
but I just think, like, growing up in an environment where
(05:43):
it was just, like, always Competitive and always with, like,
sports, surrounded by, like, I had football, I was surrounded by
my brothers, had baseball, soccer, obviously, basketball.
Like, I was just, like, all these sports. Like, parkour was one of them as
well. And I kind of, like, they were never forcing me to do any sport
I wanted. Like, so I think it was nice because I got to really, like,
(06:05):
see the one I wanted to enjoy. And when I started playing
soccer, I remember at one point, all four of us were on the same club
team, and we were all, like, at the same club. And it was so crazy
because we'd all go, like, trainings and, like, come have games on the
weekends. And I think just being, like, with my brothers and growing up, that just,
like, really motivated me to continue to do it. And then obviously, when
(06:26):
I joined internationals, that was, like, a whole nother step,
and I found, like, more love for the game as it got, like, more serious,
and I realized I really wanted to take it far. So I think
going from my club in Erie to
internationals, I think that also was just, like, huge for me at, like,
only I think I was, like, 9 or 10. So I think making
(06:48):
that change that early also helped me. I was
surrounded by, like, obviously the best coaches, and then the
players who were all, like, wanted to be the best. Yeah. And
we. We. We. We should mention, if people didn't catch it in the first episode
of this series, that you are the baby, right? Yes. Three
older brothers. Yeah. Both parents were Nittany
(07:10):
Lions. Both competed at Division 1 level. And
obviously this helped pave the way. I
think you said something really important there. They allowed you to choose the sport that
you loved. Yeah. I mean, even growing
up, I was playing basketball while playing soccer, and they were never
like, oh, you can't play basketball because of soccer. Like, they let me do, like,
(07:32):
whatever I wanted to for sports wise, and I was like, no, like, I'm gonna
have to give up basketball for soccer. They're like, are you sure you want to
do this? Like, they would make sure I wanted to do it. I wasn't doing
it for any other reason other than the fact that I wanted to do it.
So I think them just giving me, like, support and guidance through
it all, like, motivated me to be even happier with what I was doing as
well. Let's stick on that double sport thing or multi sport
(07:55):
thing. This is so important, and this is something near and dear to both
Kortney and my heart because we feel like so much so often
kids are pigeonholed into a sport a little bit too
soon. You played basketball in high school.
Right, Right. Okay, let's just repeat that. You are on a
professional soccer team as a 17 year old, but played basketball in high school. And
(08:16):
I know you didn't play as a senior. You. You got out of school early.
But talk to us a little bit. You know, you. You. You hear Abby
Wambach talking about playing basketball and how that helped her be a better soccer
player. Right. All these other, you know, great athletes talking about their
dual sports endeavors. How did
basketball help you be a better athlete or
(08:38):
be a better soccer player? Maybe? I don't know. What, What? Give us your take
on that. Well, I think growing up, I always played basketball,
and I always just loved the game. And I think it was good for me
because in order for me to get to soccer, I would have to
drive two hours to be with my teammates. And for basketball, it
felt like I didn't have to, like, drive two hours to be with a team.
(08:58):
So, like, I was, like, teammates with the girls in my grade and, like, with
my class. And I've always. I always wanted that. Like, I always wanted to just,
like, have teammates. I was also friends with at school or something
like that. So growing up, I played AAU basketball. I wasn't
really able to do that with soccer just because it was, like, really overlapping.
So then I decided to do just, like, high school and middle school basketball.
(09:20):
But I think it helped me a ton. I mean, I think creating
relationships with the coaches and the players on the team, and then also
just, like, I love basketball. I think it's really important too. Like,
it's very, like, a quick game, so you always have to be, like, ready and
on. So I think just playing that and meeting the girls that I met
and having relationships was good for me to have, like. Cause, you know,
(09:41):
there's like, a difference between, like, school friends and then, like, your soccer friends
or, like, your basketball friends. But, like, I was able to have my basketball friends
and school friends in one in a way. And I didn't just have to go
travel two hours to, like, meet people who understood me
as an athlete. Like, I was able to, like, and they were all supportive, too.
Like, but I wasn't there. There was no, like, oh, you're not here. Like,
(10:03):
you can't be playing. Like, it was just support the whole time for my team.
And, like, that's. My high school is Fairview in Erie. And I
think, like, just being a part of that high
school, like, the district is just, like,
insane to me. Like, we have a middle school, high school, and
elementary School all on the same hill. So like we're all so
(10:25):
close. And then we would have like elementary come to our games, like middle school.
And it's just like such a good community. So I think it's being surrounded by
the Fairview like community was also a blessing to me to be
around those type of people growing up. Yeah, I love that. I'm
from a small town, so I understand exactly what you're talking
about. So I think that's amazing. And I love that your
(10:46):
parents like were so supportive in this journey. Like it sounds like your community was
supportive too. Oh, totally. Yes. I
picked your parents brain on this because I was curious about what their piece
of advice, like things that they gave you in advice. So I want to reverse
this question to you. What was the best piece of advice your parents gave you
that has stuck with you through your athletic journey? It may not be one
(11:08):
quote or one thing, but I want to know like, what? Yeah, I
think one thing that they said to me was like, soccer is not who you
are, it's what you do. And I think that really stuck with me just because
like people aren't going to. People who don't live in Akron, Ohio
and play against me aren't going to know me. People at my home don't see
the soccer side of me. Like my Fairview little town never saw me play soccer.
(11:30):
Cause I never played in Erie and I never played in the little town Fairview.
But like, I did like the other stuff that I like that made
me notice in a way. Like for example, in school, like I would always be
with people who like didn't have as many friends and like just always try to
like make sure everyone was included. And I would like I was online, but I
would go in for lunch and just hang out with people and like go to
(11:51):
classes and hang out with some teachers. Just because I knew how important it was
to like build those relationships. And then once I went online,
like I still made time just to go in and see them. But I
think my parents telling me like
that's like kept repeating like, you're not just a soccer player. Like
you have to be something else. Like you never know when that could be taken
(12:12):
away from you. So it's like you need to create like yourself as well.
So I think just that really stuck with me, I think over the years.
Because it really made me like have to motivate me to
do stuff outside of soccer, outside of my comfort zone at times.
Oh yeah, outside your comfort zone, right. Soccer is your comfort
zone. There's life outside of that,
(12:34):
and soccer prepares you for. That's. That's. That's. That's amazing.
Tell us a little bit about your tattoo. Your dad,
right? Yeah, I know. It's kind of big. You can kind of see it.
Yeah. So this is. It's
his handwriting. I.
He's said this to me since day one. I mean, I. Like,
(12:56):
that's all I remember him saying me whenever he dropped me off at the school
bus. So I'm, like, just going to school every day with. Make a
difference in my head. I was like, dad, I'm going to college. Like, when am
I gonna see you? Like, you're not gonna be able to say this to me
anymore. So I was like, I want to get this tattoo. Just because it's not
soccer. Like, it doesn't mean anything about soccer to me. And that's what. Like, I
(13:16):
don't think people realize. I show people. They're like, oh, like, in soccer. I'm like,
no, not in soccer at all. Like, this is just, like,
making a difference in people's lives that I meet. Like,
just saying hi to someone or, like, just a random act of kindness that makes
a difference in someone's life. Like, you never. I have had an experience in high
school where I didn't know wasn't doing well,
(13:38):
and I ended up just being really nice to her. And then I heard later
that, like, it made such a difference in her life, and it extremely helped her
in the future when it was just like a hey, like, good morning, and I
just said hi to her. And then, like, I think just those little things, once
I, like, did them and realize how much of a difference they make in people's
lives, continuing to do that every day. But it is kind of
(14:00):
crazy. I'm a tattoo. I mean, I think he was shocked, too, when he got
it. Well, he mentioned he's not fond of his own handwriting, so he's
like, and she got it in my handwriting, right? Yeah. I don't think he saw
that coming. I brought the note. He, like, wrote a note, and I brought it
on the day because we drove in separate cars. And I was like, dad, I'm
gonna use your handwriting. He was like, what? I was like, yeah, scratch
(14:21):
the other idea. You know,
it's amazing. We're sitting here, Kortney talking to a professional athlete, and
she's talking about everything. Well, I mean,
except her accolades or her
stats or her training or all these things. But this
is what helped you get there. How
(14:43):
do you think using, like, making a difference and
building these relationships. Do you think that's made a. Made your journey
in soccer different than other people's?
What? Give us some. I think. Well, my first
USA camp, they have, like, a character award at the end of every
camp. In my first one I ever went to, it was, like, the first
(15:05):
cycle of U14 or U15. And I remember at the end,
we, like, all had sat down for our closing meeting, and our
coach mentioned. She was like, we have this award I'm gonna give to, like, a
character, Someone who's been a really good character the past week, who's been, like,
helping with gear, like, talking to the
staff, getting to know other people, being there for their teammates, saying thank you to
(15:28):
random people that they see, like the lunch ladies and people who are cleaning up
and stuff like that. And they went on, and I was like, oh, like, I
have no idea. This is going to be. It wasn't even a thought in my
head it was going to be me. And then they were like, okay, Katie Scott,
like, come to the front. And I was like, oh, my gosh. Like, and then
they gave me this, like, jersey. And I just remember it was like, my first
camp ever. And I was like, oh, my God. Like, this is crazy. And they
(15:49):
made me speak. They're like, okay, now, like, say, like, a speech, everyone. I
was like, oh, my God. I just, like, started talking to these girls. I was
like, you guys are the best. Because it was, like, my first time meeting these
girls, and it was, like. It was a ton of fun. But I. I think
that definitely, I think, has helped me. I think
the USA culture is. It's
(16:09):
very specific. Like, you have to be a good person. They really care about who
you are before they care about the soccer player. And I
think I also got the character awarded U16.
And I think over time, like, you don't have to be the
best player on the field. Like, they don't care about that. Bringing someone into
camp. Like, they. They talk about how they watch people
(16:31):
when they leave the field and if they clean up the bench and if they
talk to coaches and look them in the eye and they talk about all these
little things of why we're in camp. And I think people don't really know
that, but I think it's important to, like, realize that these little
things are, like, the reason why players get to where
they are, because those are the coaches realize. Yeah, it
(16:52):
sounds like recruiting. I flew to
California once to watch a kid in the dugout to see what she was do.
What kind of a teammate was whether or not I wanted to spend that much
money to get her in to be on the program. That makes a big
difference. And I remember when you got that, that. That
character award. I probably still have the text message, but I like.
(17:13):
And I, you know, think about what that does for your confidence in your first
trip to the camp. Yeah, I remember. I, like, called you, like, twice. I was
so homesick. And I was like, yes, I remember that. Like, I was, like, so
homesick. Like, I always used to get homesick, I think, just because I was
younger and I didn't know anyone there and I was away for like a week
and a half. Yeah. And I was like, what am I doing? Like, this is
crazy. But I remember calling you and having those conversations, which is
(17:37):
crazy. So. Yep, I remember very specifically as well. And
I. I remember you getting that award, and I remember you, you know, getting, you
know, to the next level and the next level. The next level. What's the
pressure that goes on with that once you're there? And then you go
home for a while when you train with your team and basketball and you're
going to school and then they've got to repick. Right. This is what we do.
(17:59):
Big teams every so often, whether you say softball or
soccer or whatever it is. What is that pressure?
Like, how have you managed that? I mean,
I think just, like, going through the
journey and really believing in, like, what I'm doing
and really, like, focusing on each day. And if I don't get picked for a
(18:19):
camp, which has happened, then move on. And, you know, like, you get
feedback normally. Sometimes you don't, but normally you do. And then
just keep working on those things, I think just not losing faith
and hope and what your goal is. And if I. When I didn't get picked,
I didn't, like, put my head down. I was like, okay, like, it's fine. Like,
it's just one camp, you know, like, I'll get the next one and just, like,
(18:40):
keep working on that. But I think it can be really pressuring. I
think mostly before the World cup, we didn't really know, and it was, like,
right before, and they hadn't sent out the emails. So I think that was also,
like, a lot for us to handle. I know, like, girls text back and forth.
Like, did you get the text? You get the text? It's like, no. Like, do
you get the email? No, I didn't get the email. Like, did you get anything?
And it's like, it's a lot because sometimes you'll get an Email and then a
(19:03):
friend will ask you, did you get it? And you don't want to, like, say
yes and you tell her you didn't make it. And I think it's just like,
like, mentally it's a really stressful week, but I think just trying
to focus on like the now and not be like, oh, if I get picked
or if I don't get picked, this is what's gonna happen. Yeah, But I was
actually hurt before the World cup with a
back issue, so I didn't, I wasn't sure if I was gonna be back. I
(19:26):
didn't even know if I was gonna be back that year. Like, it was like,
it was just like, pretty rough for me. So I think just having the
hope that every day I would just like, be pain free. My back and then
once I was there, just started to grind out. And
then unfortunately when I got to the World Cup, I had another injury the
first week I got there, so I had to go through that.
(19:48):
But I think just being picked and being with the team is also just an
honor. I mean, every time, like, I still get nervous for
the email and it's like, people could be like, oh, you've been on the team
for three years, like, why do you get nervous? It's like, I still get nervous
for camps. Like, I still have like this anxious feeling. And then obviously when you
get there, you're with your girls, it's better. But always just like before, I think
it's just like, it's exciting feeling. Like, it's not like, oh, I'm. I don't want
(20:11):
to go. I'm scared. It's like, I'm excited, but I'm nervous. Like, had to perform
every day and like, yes, they understand, even off day. But it's also
like, they're here, here for a reason. So I think
I'm a player on my team who tries to, like, make sure
girls know that. Like, I want to make sure everyone on our team who's new
knows why they're here. Like, they're here for a reason. They shouldn't be, like,
(20:31):
super, like, you know, like, anxious about it because they're here
and they got here and they worked here to get there. So I'm like, you
have a reason to be here. You're here, like, because you worked for it. So
I think I just try to remind my players that, yeah, they're not. Just
like, right, yeah, right.
Go ahead, Court. I just said, are you sure you're 17? I know.
(20:53):
Very levelheaded for a 17 year. Old Katie.
I look back at myself, I'm like, courtney, you did not have your crap together
compared to this. But I love that. Like, to be able to
process that. And. And I look at this. Jones is like, the people
that are listening to this and the kids that are listening to this, you're like,
oh, wait, my playing time's not the only thing that matters. Oh, wait, like,
(21:14):
you, I should be helping reassure other people. And
you are much younger than even, like, my process of
Julie making us see a sports psychologist and kind of the stuff
she's helping people through now. I was. I was much older. I was in
my 20s until like, those kind of things were coming up. And
I love hearing all of this wonderful. Like, you are not the center
(21:37):
of the universe. You are like, I make everyone else the center of my universe.
And that is so amazing. And to teach young athletes to do that,
my heart is glowing. And you. I mean, I think I give a lot of
credential, Julie, because I think, like, Julie, you helped us at
internationals a ton. I mean, I still use my reset, and it's been,
what, like, four years since you taught me that, and I still
(21:57):
have the same reset. But I think it's just like you've always said, like, when
you're nervous, talk to people and help people and you'll, like, feel
better. And I think I've always used that strategy of just getting myself
out there and helping other people, and all of a sudden I feel better and,
like, more secure about it as well. Okay, timeout for the
listeners. And my. I probably know what you're talking about. Just because of playing for.
(22:18):
What is the reset? What is the secret tool that Julia.
So I do this reset. I just hit my two
legs during a game. Whenever, like, I'm in my head about something, I make a
mistake, I do it right away. And then I, like, just, like, reset and
forget about it. So it's something that just, like, whenever I, like,
catch myself overthinking, I do it. And then I, like, don't do it anymore.
(22:40):
Like, I stop immediately thinking about it. And it definitely took me time. I think
in the beginning I was like, I'm still thinking about it, but I had to,
like, teach my brain and just be like, okay, stop next action, and then move
on and, like, make up for it. Like, now do something that
you're not going to keep getting your head for in a way. So you literally
just, like, erase your memory right away. So that's the reset
(23:02):
I have. It's literally just the most simple like, slap my legs.
Yeah. And I don't want to make it, like, noticeable so no one, like, really
sees me doing it. So it's more just like, when I'm running, I'll hit my
legs and. Yeah. You know, that's great. I love it. Yeah,
I love it. I had to ask what the Secret Club was all about for
our listeners. You know, Kortney, I'm just gonna throw this in real quickly. When you
were a senior, we were. We were so fun to watch. Right? We had such
(23:25):
a nice team, and I loved watching us play. And it would be
like, the sixth inning. I'm like, oh, my gosh, we're gonna win 40 games. Right?
Like, I would, like, start. I was so excited about watching you guys play. I
had. I had to. I had to implement a reset myself. I had to pinch
the side of my leg and tell myself to do my job, because if I.
I would start to look too far ahead. Right, Katie. So you either look at
(23:45):
behind or looking ahead. And I am so
happy to hear that. That is that you have trained
yourself to be, you know, like you said, your next best
action. Right. And the other thing you said that I don't. I
want to make sure that I highlight, too, is that you say you're still nervous,
but that nerve, that. Those nerves and excitement, We've talked about that a million
(24:06):
times. Right? They're the same thing. You just breathe different through them. And you
have trained yourself to take that nervous energy and allow
it to make you be. They say, hey, this. These nerves are
just here to help me go. Right, right,
right. Yeah. I love that. I love that.
Yeah. Kortney, I know she's not really 17. She's, like,
(24:28):
27. Yeah. Like, I mean, she could be 41.
She could be close to me, but I.
I love it. And I look at what
I want my children to listen to and how they. Who I want them to
be in sports, and you are. You are that model for
them. So thank you for being who you are. And I know I just met
(24:50):
you tonight, but you're truly inspiring. Yeah. Thank
you. Thank you. I appreciate that. What do you think the. The.
Maybe it's part of what. The things you've said already, but
what do you think the habits and skills that you
have worked through as you've moved from
internationals to. You moved to a different team, I think
(25:13):
was. I can't remember where you were. And then on to Penn State and then
on, obviously with the US Program. What do you think the habits and
skills are that have really helped you Hone in
or find success. I think I really
started taking care of like my nutrition and my fitness and my recovery
and off the field stuff when I got to internationals. And I think doing
(25:34):
that at such an early age, I mean, I looked up to my older brother
Nick, who was like super strict about everything and then I saw where he went.
So I was like, okay, maybe I was like really young, but I was like,
okay, maybe I should start doing what he's doing. And I think getting on top
of my recovery, in my nutrition, in my sleep,
I think that all affected where I am now just because I started at such
(25:55):
a young age and I felt more fresh once I started getting
everything down. And I feel like I last longer in training and I think
those little habits off the field and I think also like
managing stress. I would make sure I was doing school when I was doing
school, but then when I was at soccer, I was like just focusing on soccer.
Like, I feel like early on in high school I was getting my school,
(26:17):
like mixed up with my soccer and I would be stressed at soccer and I
perform best. So I would make sure, like I was managing my time wisely of
like doing my homework so I'm not stressed for soccer. And then I can go
back and finish my homework. But like making sure when I'm at soccer, it was
just soccer. So I think just getting those little habits down and then
I think mentally just always having in your head, like, this journey
(26:38):
is your journey and you can't compare to anyone else's. I think a
lot of girls can get stuck on, oh, like you're going this college but you
didn't get in this college or they didn't ask me and then, oh, like you
won this game. Or just like comparing those little steps and awards
and little things like that can really make people, like
insecure about like their player they are. So I think just always
(26:59):
having in my head, like, this is my jersey and like, this is
my path and I know whatever happens is meant to happen. I think really believing
in that even with like my injuries, like I went through a few the
past few years and I was like going through it at some like the biggest
times where I had to be ready, like the World cup, for example. I was
like, I'm not going to be able to train or do anything or like even
(27:20):
like I wasn't even able to walk at that time. So I was like, how
am I going to be able to grow cup? So then coming back from that,
I was like, I just trusted his plan. The whole time. And then I
think just really like knowing and never comparing
your path. Anyone else can really help you. You talk about
this, you know, injury, you look at the national championship and wins. Ben, women's
(27:40):
basketball this past weekend. Paige Beckers. Excuse me. And
Azzy, Az Fudd. Both of them had major injuries
throughout their career that most people would have
really struggled with. And here, you know, like, you just don't know what's going
to happen tomorrow. Right? But it's that persistence.
That persistence and that it really. I was just talking to a team today
(28:03):
and I had an equation. It was consistency
is greater than with your less than or greater than over
intensity, right? Yeah. Your
consistency. You. Everything you just said about your sleep, about, you know,
it like, about building relationships. It's that consistency that has
helped you continue to up your level. It's amazing,
(28:25):
right? Yeah. I think that's
a big thing you said is like over intensity. I think I was lucky
to have like Carrie Androthko, who really had a good
plan. And when I went to the national team, it was a good plan of
when to train and when to not train and when to have hard days, when
to have light days. And I feel like a lot of kids over train. And
(28:45):
I was. And I had parents who were like, no,
you're not going to the field today. Like, you're not. I'm not letting you. Like
when it was my off day and they were very like, you're not doing this.
Like, you're off. You're off. And I think I'm very grateful for that. In the
moment, I was definitely like, I'm going to run. Like, no, you're not going to
run. Like, let's go do something. But I think they were only looking out for
me. Now, looking back at it, obviously in the moment, I was like, you're not
(29:08):
letting me train, whatever. But, like, looking back at him, like, they
really helped me because, I mean, I think some of some of my injuries did
come from over training. But then once I looked back, I was like, okay,
I'm gonna really start taking care of this. I mean, even at Penn State, I
feel like they do that well of like making sure. I mean, now
in the levels we're at, like college and pro, it's just very like, you train
(29:30):
your heart and then you have a light day and then you have a medium
day and then hard and then light and then off. Like, it's just very.
Making sure your body's okay for the future. Not even in the moment. It's Just
for the future, for injuries. And stuff, I want to go back to recovery
because we obviously were talking a lot about that and that is something not a
lot of people, parents, kids know about.
(29:51):
So whenever you think of recovery, and I'm gonna say you accelerated quickly
from where you were at high school to where you are today, obviously being 17.
But what is some words of advice that you would talk about recovery, Things to
think about. You just kind of talked about a lot. But what, what advice
could you give in recovery? And I know every sport's different, but talk
about recovery from your perspective and if you would have any advice for
(30:13):
that. I feel like international's really taught me that
recovery off the field is the same about how you train
on the field, like you need to look at it the same. So I would
come home from like a two out rule. I remember every
training they would make me cool down. I would have to like, if I would
have to leave early, they would take me out of training so I could cool
(30:33):
down for 15 minutes. I was like, no, I just want to train and then
leave. Like no, no, no, you're cooling down before you leave. And like I think
looking back at that, I'm like, thank you. Because that helped my body like doing
those little stretches and then going home and doing an ice bath. I did
that all the time and just like doing like Normatec or
finding like I know there's places all around like massage
(30:54):
therapists and like doing like the
cryotherapy and just little things. But I think the sleep was honestly
the most important thing in recovery. So I would just make sure I would like
manage my time throughout the day. That I was getting like eight to nine hours
of sleep every night and if I didn't get it one night, like it wasn't
a big deal. Like I wasn't like overly stressed about like not getting like some
nights I'm gonna have to stay up to study or do something so like it's
(31:18):
okay. But like just making sure throughout the week you're getting a good amount of
sleep. And then when you have off like take those off days and recover
and like, and you might be like, oh, I don't wanna do nothing. Then you
can like do a light like flush on the bike
or just doing little things to get your like, like massage
rollers and stuff like that, like something you can do on your own. But
(31:39):
I think it was just super important with me because it made
me like feel better and feel more fresh for the next
days. And your body also needs rest as well.
Yeah. Good news. Julie and I are on top of recovery.
We get plenty of sleep.
I remember I asked internationals, we did a sleep thing, and I
(32:02):
said, like, you know, the different things. We're looking at our 168 hours
that we have in a week. And I remember how many, like, the
majority of athletes at in that club
are sleep Nazis. And that is amazing because here they are
playing at the highest level, not, you know, for a high school kid.
And that told me something about the seriousness of their training.
(32:24):
Right. And I think, you know, that's something that we
don't think about. And kids are on this so late sometimes,
and this is hurting your performance. I just read something, it says, you know, can
I. Can I go out late? You know, not for, like, young kids, but can
I drink? Can I do all these things and then coach? Yeah, you can do
them all, but it's gonna. You're giving up something
(32:45):
every time you do those things. Right. Right. You're giving
up your best training, you're giving up your best recovery, you're giving up your
best skill, you know, improvement, whatever it is.
You can do anything you want, but they don't all equate to
where you are today. And I think my parents
were also like that with me. Like, they weren't ever like, oh, you can't go
(33:08):
out, or you can't do this because of your performance. Like, they kind of. If
I did something and if I messed up and if I didn't feel my best,
then I would know and I'd be like, okay, yeah, I'm not gonna do the
next time. It's like, okay. Like, they were never like, oh, you can't go hang
out with your friends, or you can't. I don't know, random stuff. You can't. Like.
Like, I would just want to come home and go on an ice bath. Like,
I would want to do all these things. Like, I never really felt pressure from
(33:29):
them being like, oh, you should probably do this. Like, yeah, they were probably like,
you can nap in the car and I'll drive. Like, which is, like, helpful
for me. But, like, I think just having them also
not, like, because I think sometimes when parents can be, like,
overly, like, do this, then we don't want to do it. So I think them
not being pushy towards recovery or my soccer
(33:52):
life, it helps me motivate me to want to do that stuff.
What about when you screwed up? How'd they handle it when you screwed up? We
talked to them a little bit about that. What Was their response to you not
playing your best? Or what is their response? Or, like, when you. When you weren't
in a lineup, like, or you. Or you don't get to, you know, you're not
at the top of the hill. How do they manage that? And
(34:12):
then I'm going to ask how that helped you or hurt you. Yeah, I think.
Well, I would always put it in perspective whenever things are going on.
Obviously, my older brother Nick hasn't had the easiest path. So whenever I
wouldn't start or I want to make a travel roster, things like that, I would
always. Just during those conversations I was having with the coach, I'd be like, okay,
like, imagine Nick. Imagine how he is now and his belief and his
(34:34):
faith that got him to where he is now. And I think just always having
that. But my parents really, like, I would tell them and they would just
be like, okay, like, it's all good. Like, trust this plan and
you're going to be good. And it's just, like, simple things. They don't, like, keep
it going and keep talking about it. Like, they know, like, to just not. I
mean, obviously I'm upset about it. I'm not going to be happy about that. And
(34:55):
they know to just, like, get my mind off of it. Like, they'll call me
and be like, okay, let's talk about this. And, like, they're not trying to
be like, oh, distract me from it in a way. They're not
trying to like. But they'll be like, oh, do you want to talk about it?
And I'm like, yeah, I'll talk about it. But if I'm like, no, like, okay,
I guess, fine, maybe don't talk about it. I think they. They just understand. I
think also they went through the sports and they understand that it
(35:17):
just is not fun when you. That you're in the situation. So you don't want
to keep trying to, like, be in the situation with another
conversation with another person in a way. So I think they just, like,
are like, okay, it happens. You know, you're gonna be
fine. It's all part of your journey. You're this age, you're young, you're
fine, and move on. And then I'm like, okay, you're right.
(35:39):
And when you think of that approach where, hey, do you
want to talk about it or not? I had a rule with my mom that
she wasn't allowed to talk to me until after I had dinner. Right. Because it
just was better for everybody in the house. But, like, when you look at it
from A mental performance perspective. We're constantly asking athletes
to, you know, take what they didn't like and
(36:00):
then imagine it in the way that they wanted it so they can move on
from that mistake and not take it. But then people come in afterwards and
keep hammering the mistake in.
I don't know who that's helping. Yeah, I mean, I just feel
like we know the mistake and we know what we
want, and it's just like, yes, it motivates me. It
(36:22):
only motivates me to want to make the starting lineup or want to make the
travel roster. So it's like having other pressure of people being like, why aren't you
making it? Or, what can you do better? It's like, we know we're doing better,
or we can do better. We know, like, it already doesn't feel good. And
I think just them understanding and being super
helpful with not asking so many questions or being like, why is this
(36:44):
happening? Like, there's like, okay, like, it's fine. Move on, and you're going to
be fine. But I think keeping it going and
continuing to, like, get in your head about it can only make it worse if
you just keep talking about it, because then you just overthink and you're like, what
am I doing wrong? Like, it's like, you're not doing anything wrong. It's just not
your time right now. Like, it'll come. Like, and I understand that. I'm 17, playing
in a pro league. Like, I understand my time's not here right now for playing,
(37:07):
which is, like, I'm fine. I love my environment. I love the girls. Like,
the girls that play over me. I'm, like, best friends with. I'm like, like, you're
great. You're amazing. Like, I'm. There's no, like,
the environment right now. I'm in none of, like, jealousy
or any of that going on. I think being around those girls who, like, help
me and want me to be better. Like, girls were in my position who were
(37:29):
like, you did great today. I'm so proud of you. I'm like. Makes me feel
really good because I'm like, no matter what, people are for me and, like, helping
me in this situation, and I think my parents know that, too, as
well. I have people to talk to if I'm down, you know, like, at my
environment right now. So I think in growing up as well, they knew
I always had someone, like, I had you to talk to, Julie, and they knew
(37:49):
that, like, I'd be like, okay, I'm calling Julie. They got camps for an example
with USA when I was like 15 or 16, I'd be like,
yeah, like today's hard. But I talked to Julie and I would like,
kind of say what they said, say what you said to me. And they'd be
like, oh, that's great. Like, that's awesome. And then just like giving
them like, I know they're not professionals at helping me. I mean, it's not their
(38:09):
job to know, like, how to like, mentally help someone like you do. So
I think going to you about that was very grateful to have you. And then
just going back and giving them that advice. And then they would come to
me after about that. So say I was having a hard day. They'd be like,
remember what Julie said. I'm like, okay, you're right. So I think telling them what
you said was helpful because they would come back to me and explain to
(38:30):
me and be like, remember the concept she said of, you know, the reset and
the next action or how it's okay to have bad days and little things like
that. So I think having you and me talking to my parents about it helped
a ton as well. It's a good perspective to think. I never really
looked at that way. But you have someone then to remind you. Sometimes we just
need a gentle reminder. It's not. They weren't even giving you advice. They're just, hey,
(38:52):
you already know this. Pull it back up. Right? Like keeping me accountable
to what I'm saying. Yeah. On the days I don't want to feel accountable or
be accountable. So. Okay, remember this. I'm like, you're right. Yeah,
that's good. Okay, so I want to know
what other club I missed. What other mental strategies did
Julie talk to you about? Or do you have through your
(39:14):
journey to stay composed? Because you really do have to stay composed.
From getting recruited to a high level college, to playing on
the US Team to. To where you are today. What other
mental strategies do you have in your back pocket? I think, Julie, you always
talk, like, pressures of privilege. And I think, like,
that the pressure that I was getting was all. It was good
(39:37):
pressure. Like it was for things that I wanted to
achieve. And I never looked at it as like, oh, like, they're putting so much
pressure on me. I have to do this, have to do this. Like, oh, I
want to do that. So put pressure on me. Like, it makes people, like, more
excited for it in a way. Shoot. Sorry, my, my laptop
is weird. And I think you also just talked
about, like, we do this because we love what we do. And I just like,
(39:59):
that stuck with me because, like, we don't have to be doing what we're doing,
but I love what I'm doing. And I think it's all about the journey. And
I know that when things get hard, there's the other side of it. Like, what
is it all for? And just remembering why I play the game and why I
love the game. And like those. There's gonna be days where obviously it's hard
and you're like, why am I doing this? And there's days like, okay, this is
(40:20):
why it's worth it. And those days are. I think the bad
days are good because it really makes you like, work, right? And like be like,
okay. I don't know, it's like more of like a mental reset day. You're like,
okay, like say in it mentally. Because when those day come that is really good,
you're gonna like, that's why I did this. So I think, Julie, like, you
just teaching that of like the mental aspect of it. Like, your body might
(40:41):
be tired, like, might be stressed and overwhelmed, but, like, if
you mention can get through it, then you're going to be fine because your body,
your physically isn't stopping you. It's your mental. And I think that was huge. Me
that stuck with me. I remember telling you, like, we did. The
why on that, like episode three and four of this podcast. Like, it kind
of like, right in. She pulled it right in, you
(41:03):
know, because it is hard. And you signed up for uncertainty. You signed up for
pressure when you knew that you wanted to take this journey. Like, you knew you
were just going to skate through it to get there. You're playing with the best
in the world. Yeah, right? Yeah. And it's
like, yeah, like, some people are like, why don't you stay in college? You
could be playing or why don't you stay at club or a high school? You
(41:24):
could be playing for your high school and being a big star. But it's like
I wanted, I didn't want that path for me. Like, I wanted to be challenged
at this age. So then when I'm older, like, I feel more comfortable.
And I think, like, looking at the league, there's a lot of older players in
it right now. And it's like, I want to be those girls one day who
like, are inspired by others. And like, I want to be
like the girl I look up to in my club right now. And it's like,
(41:46):
I'm so glad I made this journey because I'm surrounded and playing with these
Amazing women who have been through my spot. They've
been not playing or not traveling and they understand. So it's not like I have
girls who are like, oh, like rude to me about it. Like, you're good, like
your time's going to come. And it's like having those players on my team and
being in that environment is super helpful as well. Let's talk about
(42:08):
those players for just a second. What do you see as the
characteristics that really shine in
these amazing athletes that you're around? What, what, what are the commonalities?
What, what are you seeing? These people, Honestly,
everyone has fun. Like that kind of sounds like crazy, but like
literally the second we got on the field, we're laughing and having fun. Like,
(42:31):
you can tell everyone loves the game. Like even in our meetings, our co host
would come in and make a crack a joke and everyone's just like laughing and
we have music every day, like so loud. Like fun music. We're all
dancing and it's like everyone loves what we're doing and everyone's
happy and fun. And maybe not everyone's happy every day, but everyone shows that
they're having fun. Right. And like we give energy and we give our best
(42:53):
every day. And I think showing up and everyone doing that, giving their best every
day, like you can tell everyone's here and mentally and
physically, like, no matter what, if we're tired, we're there. Like we're going to show
up every day to be our best. And I think it's just everyone has fun.
We love to compete. Like, I think that's huge. We always do,
like competitions all the time. But I think it's like when we
(43:14):
celebrate, we celebrate, like we make sure we know, we make it known that we
want. It's like little things like where we have fun with it and, and I
think that's the biggest thing is just we compete and have fun. Like
everyone you can tell loves the game and loves what we're doing. And I think
it's cool to be around that because, you know, in high school some people maybe
aren't loving the game or in clubs, some parents are be forcing the kid to
(43:36):
play or want to go to another sport for college. And it's like being
in an environment where this is our job and the women love what
we do is just so fun to be around.
Yeah. And you mentioned how supportive everyone was. So not only you're
supportive, you're competitive to the hill and then
you are. I mean, you're having. There's, there's no better
(43:58):
atmosphere. I mean, even when I got called for national team camp,
like, so super, like, congratulations. Like, so many people texting me.
I come in to training today, and I was gone for a week. It's like,
we missed you. Like, we're so happy you're back. And I'm like, you don't have
to say anything to me, but, like, you guys are going out of your way
to be, like. You know what I mean? Like, I'm, what, 17? And they're way
older than me. Like, they do not have to be, like, looking out for me,
(44:19):
but you can tell they look out for me and really treat me with, like,
kindness, which, like, it's just so good to be around.
Are there different pressures in the pro setting than there are in
the international. On the National Team setting?
I think. Well, I mean, the
national team, I feel like it's just the biggest honor. I mean,
(44:42):
wearing the crest and, like, singing the national anthem, like, hits me every
time. And it's just, like. Because it's like, I think for my country and,
like, I played in really big games for the national team, so I think
it's just really hit me. Sorry. Someone just walked
by. My teammates walked by
for Kansas City. I think that was always a dream of mine,
(45:05):
to be proud. And I think it's just like. It's like a different feeling. Like,
I don't even know how to explain it. Like, the pressure for. I don't. The
thing is, like, I don't really. Like, I feel pressure, but, like, it's more, like,
on myself. Like, no. No one else is like, oh, you have to do this.
You have to perform like this. Like, it's the pressure I put on myself. So
I think for my national team, I'm like, okay, Katie, like, be one of the
captains today and lead your team. Whereas Kansas City, I'm like,
(45:28):
okay, learn from someone today. Like, really take in what these women are giving you,
because they're the best in the world, and I can learn so
much from them in just a day. I mean, same with my national team, but
I think my national team, I'm a little bit more involved, and
it's like, I'm more comfortable with the girls, obviously. I've been with them for, like,
three years, so I think playing with them, it's a little different than my
(45:49):
pro team, just because I'm still getting to know my pro team. I've been with
them only for a few months, but I think just trying to learn from
them every day. You're a professional soccer
Player. And you just said that every day you need to
learn from the people that you're working with. And I think that is. I think
we lose that. I just talked in my class today, I teach at Akron about,
(46:10):
you know, every single amazing athlete has
a coach, right? Every, like, Simone Biles has a
coach. You know, Djokovic has a coach. You name the
sport, they all have coaches, you know, and
because they have to continue to learn, some. They've got to look and see what
other. What other places they can get to. And what you just said
(46:32):
is that every day in this environment is like a
classroom. Right? Right. Yeah. I
think. I mean, on and off the field. I mean, in lifts
and just, like, in the lunchroom or evening in their breakfast room.
It's like, I'm always just learning. Not even soccer.
Like, it's just off the field of how you are as a person and how
(46:53):
they treat people and what they're doing with their days off and how they're helping
people or, like, with school and how they're learning and just, like,
getting to know these girls, I learned so much from them. And then obviously, on
the field, I'm playing with the best of the best, so, like, just seeing little
things they do. I think it's just super important to be surrounded by
these type of people in, like, every day,
(47:15):
on and off the field, which I'm, like, blessed to. Be a part of, and
constantly observing the landscape and picking up all the. All the. It's amazing. What
an amazing opportunity. Yes. Yeah.
It's crazy. I have a question now that you're, like,
just to see you and, like, how you light up, my
question to you is, looking beyond soccer, how do you
(47:37):
define success for yourself? How do you define
what's next for Katie? How do you define what's good for Katie?
Because it seems like your lens of focus changes every day. So I love that.
But how do you define success? I
think. I don't think it comes down to, like, winning or losing
or, like, those little things. I think it's just, like, how I feel with
(47:59):
myself, and then how I feel. I make other players feel around me
as well. Like, if I'm making players feel like. Like, for example, on
my national team, I want them to feel confident and be, like, creative in what
they're doing, and I want us to make mistakes, and I want us to be
a team that if someone's saying something wrong, at least we're on the same
page. Like, don't be scared to talk on the field or communicate
(48:20):
and I think with my cap, I was the captain recently with the
national team and it's just like making sure everyone on my team
feels the same. There's no captain or not captain. We're all captains. And I make
sure, like, people know that, like, you have a voice. Like, just because someone's wearing
an armband, I have an armband on, it doesn't mean I'm different than you or
I'm better than you. Like, we're all good and we're all reasons why we're good.
(48:41):
And I think making sure people around, around me on my team
utilize their strengths, I think that is what I feel good about
because I think once we do that, then what we want will come from
it. Like, don't worry. We don't worry so much about. We just had a
game and we weren't like, okay, we're going to, we want to win this game.
We're like, okay, we're going to do this and then we're going to have a
good outcome. Like, we're going to have this type of shape and we're going to
(49:03):
all shift together. And like, we were really focusing on defensively
and how we were defensively. So I think when we got those down,
the attacking just came with it because we have good opportunities to attack. So I
think making sure everyone around me feels comfortable is when I'm really happy
with my game. And you just threw in there too. A whole
process over outcome discussion. Right. Here's what we're going
(49:25):
to do in order to get as close to our outcome as possible. We don't
control outcomes, but you're talking about your shape and your shift and
allowing yourself to then open up the attack. That's process the things you can
control. And you saying, okay, I need everybody around me to
feel confident so that they can be creative. Right?
Right. And consistent and comfortable and all those things.
(49:47):
Right. And if the leader, if you're the
leader and you provide what they. They call this psychological safety.
Right. You can talk with Amy Edmondson from North Northwestern. That's her
thing, the researcher. And that is the one thing
that makes programs and people
successful. Right. This word didn't even happen when I, like when
(50:09):
I was coaching Kortney there. I didn't know it. So we didn't talk about psychological
safety. Right. I think we had it. I think we had. Well, I think
Dr. Ziegler did like Dr. Ziegler did to an extent. Because
if I threw a ball and she's like, your shortstop messed up, say, hey, it's
my fault. I threw one over the plate. It's the same kind of concept.
You're right. It wasn't. But it wasn't. It didn't have a name and a formal
(50:30):
thing and. But it is true. When you're taking
pressure off of that person, they're like, okay, yeah, you're right. That wasn't my fault.
I got this. Like, you create a bond that is
much more forged in strength than anything else. Right. And I
also, like, I'm going to mess up, so, like, I'm going to own it, so
I want everyone else to feel that way, too. Like, it's okay to mess up.
(50:51):
We're all going to mess up. I mean, mess up so many times in soccer,
it's like, that's what we do. So, like, when we do good, it's like,
we got to make. We got to capitalize all the time. We're really good on
it. But I think making sure people. I think it's being on the same page,
too. Like, communication is huge. Most in the backline where I play. So I think
communicating to my team, even if it's not what they want, at least we're all
(51:11):
on the same page and something is going to come out of it because we're
on the same page. If we're on the same page and someone goes. And then
the other lines drop and it's going to be, like, all spread out, and then
our communication is off. So I think just making sure that, like I
said, everyone feels comfortable and can talk what they want to say and
communicate with everyone. It just makes the environment good to be around.
(51:31):
And if everyone's talking, you're like, I use this example today. You're driving down
the street and you're in a car with somebody else, and someone says, hey, did
you see that yellow Lamborghini? You're like, no,
because you're looking out two different windows. You're in the same exact time, same exact
road, same exact environment, but you're seeing different things. And on. On
the pitch, you're seeing different things. And being able to communicate those things makes everybody
(51:52):
better because you can't see everything. Right? Right?
Yeah. Huge. Absolutely huge. Very good,
Julie. We're at. We're. We're close to our hour. Do you have any
more questions to ask, Katie? Because I probably know you have one more brewing in
your brain, because I know you do. You have one more. Before
we start wrapping up this conversation.
(52:16):
As you. As you've gone through and
you've faced adversity and you've faced
Challenges of not playing and playing and, you know, not being picked
and picked. How. What. How has
that shaped your ability
to play soccer better?
(52:38):
I think my past injury,
where really it took me out of the game, I think being
able to realize what I got back from, I didn't
really think I was gonna be able to come back to how I was so
quickly. So I think being able to come back so quickly, really,
and just having the faith that I did through that hard time of, everything's gonna
(52:58):
be fine, like, this is just a moment of my little journey,
my journey that's here right now. And it's like, I think having
the perspective is, like, this is just in
a moment thing, and you're gonna get over it. But those, like, really,
I think, hit me a lot, mostly because I find so much joy in the
game of soccer. So when that's taken away from me, it's like, oh, gosh.
(53:20):
Like, I'm. Like, it just definitely, like, it's just different
for me. Right. I play soccer every day, so when I'm injured or something's not
going right, I can't play. I feel like it just, like, takes a tool on
me. So I think just being grateful every day that I have
the opportunity to play soccer and be with my teammates, and even when I wasn't
playing, but I was still on the field with my teammates and able to be
(53:42):
there, I was happy. And I wasn't in the PT room or at doctor's
appointments, like, when I was on the field with them, I was happy. And then
even, I mean, off the field, I was able to do, like, film and learn
from that. So I think even when you're hurt, like, you can still learn from
the game. Like, watch the game, talk with your coach, like, have conversations where you
can do better when you're back. So I think, really, when things
(54:04):
aren't going well and you're not on the field and you can't play, it's. What
can you do to continue to get better? Because you can have conversations with your
coach and watch film and go over that. But I think just being grateful every
day that you do have the opportunity, because when you go through a lot,
it just really puts it in perspective of how lucky I am to have the
health that I am to play. Yeah, that's awesome.
(54:24):
Yes. You can mentally rehearse whenever you
wanted.
From Julie as we speak. Katie, thank
you so much for taking the time. I love this that you are a true
inspiration to anybody in athletics and. Or
if not athletics, if they're overcoming in your perspective
(54:45):
of life and how you really look through a lens.
It is so unique and so wonderful. And I am so happy
that Julie has brought you on this because I truly enjoyed
listening to you and I wish you the best so much. Thank you. So
I could be here. Yeah, we, I, I, I am so proud
of you. I'm not surprised by any accolade that you
(55:08):
ever acquire, but I'm so proud of you and, and
of the human being that you are. And I hope that young athletes that
are listening to this heard the relationships, the
persistence, the mental. I mean, it's not been totally
easy, right? There's nothing's easy. And I hope that they've heard the advice that you
have given and the things that you have done that have helped you overcome and
(55:30):
continue to climb. Because your story is awesome.
Thank you. Thank you. I really appreciate it. You're totally making a
difference. It is tattooed on you and you are living
it every day. So thank you. We appreciate you so much. Thank you.
Thank you so much. Thanks so much for joining us
on Game Changers Athlete edition. Remember, champions
(55:53):
aren't born. They're built through dedication, perseverance,
and the right mindset. If you found value in today's episode, share
it with a teammate, with a coach, or someone who could benefit from
this conversation. Don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcast
and follow us on social media for exclusive content and daily
motivation. Until next time, keep pushing your limits and stay
(56:15):
focused on becoming the game changer you are meant to be.
Welcome to Game Changers Athlete Edition. I'm Kortney
Harmon, a former Division 1 softball pitcher turned high performance
business coach who knows what it takes to translate athletic
mindset into real world success. And I'm Julie Jones, a
Hall of Famer and former Division 1 head coach with more than 20 years of
experience turned mental performance coach. Together we bridge the
(00:57):
gap between elite athletics and lifelong achievement, helping you
unlock your full potential on and off the field. This
podcast is your go to source for inspiration,
motivation, amazing guests, and actionable insights to
help you elevate your game. Welcome
back to another episode of Game Changers Athlete Edition.
(01:18):
And we're excited to welcome Katie Scott. This is like part two,
two of our last conversation. We had Katie's parents on
for the last episode and I'm so excited. I have
heard so much about Katie and at just the age of 17 years
old, Katie has accomplished what many athletes work their
entire career towards. Playing professionally with the Kansas City
(01:41):
Current, representing her country in international
competition, competing at the collegiate level with Penn
State. Katie, I am so excited
just to think of your remarkable journey and your perspective
to be joining us today. So thank you so much for taking the time out
of your busy schedule and your training schedule to talk with Julie and I
(02:02):
thank you. I'm happy to be here. Julie, you're so funny. You're like, you're like,
yeah, busy schedule. No,
I like until like two I'm really home
or like two 30ish. So like we get like all the work done on there
by like 9am and then get home by like 3
every day. So like, this is great. This worked perfectly.
(02:24):
Perfect. Well, not to mention that you're just in Georgia, right. With the US Team.
I mean. Yeah, right. Professionally. And then you're down with
U.S. soccer in Georgia, training with, with that team. And here
you're. Now you're back in Kansas City. So back and forth and back and
forth and, you know, balancing this all. But before we kick off, I
just want to throw out. So I've, I've been very privileged
(02:47):
to work with Katie through the International Soccer Club, which is
here in Northeast Ohio. And I
think Katie was, I don't know if you were 14 when I first
started. Maybe you're maybe 14 when I first started. Maybe just at 15.
Yeah. Because when you start with teams like you 15 or do you start. Yeah,
I think, I think, yeah, I think I started with you guys. Maybe you 15.
(03:10):
So. But we, we, you know, we, we, we do mental performance training.
They're one of my groups and they're amazing. Like, all these kids go, you know,
power five. So many of them do. And Katie, of course, is at the pinnacle
of this program. And I knew from the very, very
beginning that she was different, because when I would sit there and talk, she would
just look like this, right? She looked. She was
(03:32):
so, like, dialed in, and she didn't say a whole
lot, but then all of a sudden, I realized that she was dialed in
because she was just soaking up every little piece of information
that she could process into her performance.
So for us to be able to share this with athletes today is so
exciting. And the fact that she's playing professional soccer doesn't shock
(03:54):
me one single bit, because I knew from the very beginning that she
was special. So I'm excited to share Katie with our
audience. I'm excited to learn more about this journey
since internationals, through Penn State, through, you know,
international competition. Now to the pros. So I'm gonna be quiet
and let Kortney kick off with something that she wants to start with. A question,
(04:16):
look at, and then we'll let Katie just roll. What do
you say? What do you want to start? Court. You know, I want to
start. I'm going to start with the question to lead from last episode to
this episode, because we talk to your parents, and while we
talk to your parents about their perspective, I want your
perspective because you grew up with parents who understood
(04:38):
elite athletics, how it changed your.
And probably developed your focus. So talk to
me. I mean, you were an athletic household with brothers that were very
competitive. Talk to me about growing up in. I mean, you're
still. I love you. You're still growing up,
growing up in the idea of this household that
(05:00):
athletics was so prominen. And just kind of
walk me through what that was for you, as you kind of were. You're taking
it all in. Your dad played sports. Your mom was a gymnast. Your brothers were
playing. Give. Give me your perspective. Well, I think just
growing up, I always wanted to be like my brothers. I always wanted to, like,
be one of them. So I think seeing them all play the sports they
(05:21):
did, and then we'll see my older brother playing soccer, I just, like, always loved
the sport. Obviously, my dad did it, so he was always up to, like, go
train with me if I asked him to, or, like, do anything he wanted to.
I tried gymnastics. My mom did, but it didn't really work out. I did
it for, like, two weeks, and then I don't know what happened,
but I just think, like, growing up in an environment where
(05:43):
it was just, like, always Competitive and always with, like,
sports, surrounded by, like, I had football, I was surrounded by
my brothers, had baseball, soccer, obviously, basketball.
Like, I was just, like, all these sports. Like, parkour was one of them as
well. And I kind of, like, they were never forcing me to do any sport
I wanted. Like, so I think it was nice because I got to really, like,
(06:05):
see the one I wanted to enjoy. And when I started playing
soccer, I remember at one point, all four of us were on the same club
team, and we were all, like, at the same club. And it was so crazy
because we'd all go, like, trainings and, like, come have games on the
weekends. And I think just being, like, with my brothers and growing up, that just,
like, really motivated me to continue to do it. And then obviously, when
(06:26):
I joined internationals, that was, like, a whole nother step,
and I found, like, more love for the game as it got, like, more serious,
and I realized I really wanted to take it far. So I think
going from my club in Erie to
internationals, I think that also was just, like, huge for me at, like,
only I think I was, like, 9 or 10. So I think making
(06:48):
that change that early also helped me. I was
surrounded by, like, obviously the best coaches, and then the
players who were all, like, wanted to be the best. Yeah. And
we. We. We. We should mention, if people didn't catch it in the first episode
of this series, that you are the baby, right? Yes. Three
older brothers. Yeah. Both parents were Nittany
(07:10):
Lions. Both competed at Division 1 level. And
obviously this helped pave the way. I
think you said something really important there. They allowed you to choose the sport that
you loved. Yeah. I mean, even growing
up, I was playing basketball while playing soccer, and they were never
like, oh, you can't play basketball because of soccer. Like, they let me do, like,
(07:32):
whatever I wanted to for sports wise, and I was like, no, like, I'm gonna
have to give up basketball for soccer. They're like, are you sure you want to
do this? Like, they would make sure I wanted to do it. I wasn't doing
it for any other reason other than the fact that I wanted to do it.
So I think them just giving me, like, support and guidance through
it all, like, motivated me to be even happier with what I was doing as
well. Let's stick on that double sport thing or multi sport
(07:55):
thing. This is so important, and this is something near and dear to both
Kortney and my heart because we feel like so much so often
kids are pigeonholed into a sport a little bit too
soon. You played basketball in high school.
Right, Right. Okay, let's just repeat that. You are on a
professional soccer team as a 17 year old, but played basketball in high school. And
(08:16):
I know you didn't play as a senior. You. You got out of school early.
But talk to us a little bit. You know, you. You. You hear Abby
Wambach talking about playing basketball and how that helped her be a better soccer
player. Right. All these other, you know, great athletes talking about their
dual sports endeavors. How did
basketball help you be a better athlete or
(08:38):
be a better soccer player? Maybe? I don't know. What, What? Give us your take
on that. Well, I think growing up, I always played basketball,
and I always just loved the game. And I think it was good for me
because in order for me to get to soccer, I would have to
drive two hours to be with my teammates. And for basketball, it
felt like I didn't have to, like, drive two hours to be with a team.
(08:58):
So, like, I was, like, teammates with the girls in my grade and, like, with
my class. And I've always. I always wanted that. Like, I always wanted to just,
like, have teammates. I was also friends with at school or something
like that. So growing up, I played AAU basketball. I wasn't
really able to do that with soccer just because it was, like, really overlapping.
So then I decided to do just, like, high school and middle school basketball.
(09:20):
But I think it helped me a ton. I mean, I think creating
relationships with the coaches and the players on the team, and then also
just, like, I love basketball. I think it's really important too. Like,
it's very, like, a quick game, so you always have to be, like, ready and
on. So I think just playing that and meeting the girls that I met
and having relationships was good for me to have, like. Cause, you know,
(09:41):
there's like, a difference between, like, school friends and then, like, your soccer friends
or, like, your basketball friends. But, like, I was able to have my basketball friends
and school friends in one in a way. And I didn't just have to go
travel two hours to, like, meet people who understood me
as an athlete. Like, I was able to, like, and they were all supportive, too.
Like, but I wasn't there. There was no, like, oh, you're not here. Like,
(10:03):
you can't be playing. Like, it was just support the whole time for my team.
And, like, that's. My high school is Fairview in Erie. And I
think, like, just being a part of that high
school, like, the district is just, like,
insane to me. Like, we have a middle school, high school, and
elementary School all on the same hill. So like we're all so
(10:25):
close. And then we would have like elementary come to our games, like middle school.
And it's just like such a good community. So I think it's being surrounded by
the Fairview like community was also a blessing to me to be
around those type of people growing up. Yeah, I love that. I'm
from a small town, so I understand exactly what you're talking
about. So I think that's amazing. And I love that your
(10:46):
parents like were so supportive in this journey. Like it sounds like your community was
supportive too. Oh, totally. Yes. I
picked your parents brain on this because I was curious about what their piece
of advice, like things that they gave you in advice. So I want to reverse
this question to you. What was the best piece of advice your parents gave you
that has stuck with you through your athletic journey? It may not be one
(11:08):
quote or one thing, but I want to know like, what? Yeah, I
think one thing that they said to me was like, soccer is not who you
are, it's what you do. And I think that really stuck with me just because
like people aren't going to. People who don't live in Akron, Ohio
and play against me aren't going to know me. People at my home don't see
the soccer side of me. Like my Fairview little town never saw me play soccer.
(11:30):
Cause I never played in Erie and I never played in the little town Fairview.
But like, I did like the other stuff that I like that made
me notice in a way. Like for example, in school, like I would always be
with people who like didn't have as many friends and like just always try to
like make sure everyone was included. And I would like I was online, but I
would go in for lunch and just hang out with people and like go to
(11:51):
classes and hang out with some teachers. Just because I knew how important it was
to like build those relationships. And then once I went online,
like I still made time just to go in and see them. But I
think my parents telling me like
that's like kept repeating like, you're not just a soccer player. Like
you have to be something else. Like you never know when that could be taken
(12:12):
away from you. So it's like you need to create like yourself as well.
So I think just that really stuck with me, I think over the years.
Because it really made me like have to motivate me to
do stuff outside of soccer, outside of my comfort zone at times.
Oh yeah, outside your comfort zone, right. Soccer is your comfort
zone. There's life outside of that,
(12:34):
and soccer prepares you for. That's. That's. That's. That's amazing.
Tell us a little bit about your tattoo. Your dad,
right? Yeah, I know. It's kind of big. You can kind of see it.
Yeah. So this is. It's
his handwriting. I.
He's said this to me since day one. I mean, I. Like,
(12:56):
that's all I remember him saying me whenever he dropped me off at the school
bus. So I'm, like, just going to school every day with. Make a
difference in my head. I was like, dad, I'm going to college. Like, when am
I gonna see you? Like, you're not gonna be able to say this to me
anymore. So I was like, I want to get this tattoo. Just because it's not
soccer. Like, it doesn't mean anything about soccer to me. And that's what. Like, I
(13:16):
don't think people realize. I show people. They're like, oh, like, in soccer. I'm like,
no, not in soccer at all. Like, this is just, like,
making a difference in people's lives that I meet. Like,
just saying hi to someone or, like, just a random act of kindness that makes
a difference in someone's life. Like, you never. I have had an experience in high
school where I didn't know wasn't doing well,
(13:38):
and I ended up just being really nice to her. And then I heard later
that, like, it made such a difference in her life, and it extremely helped her
in the future when it was just like a hey, like, good morning, and I
just said hi to her. And then, like, I think just those little things, once
I, like, did them and realize how much of a difference they make in people's
lives, continuing to do that every day. But it is kind of
(14:00):
crazy. I'm a tattoo. I mean, I think he was shocked, too, when he got
it. Well, he mentioned he's not fond of his own handwriting, so he's
like, and she got it in my handwriting, right? Yeah. I don't think he saw
that coming. I brought the note. He, like, wrote a note, and I brought it
on the day because we drove in separate cars. And I was like, dad, I'm
gonna use your handwriting. He was like, what? I was like, yeah, scratch
(14:21):
the other idea. You know,
it's amazing. We're sitting here, Kortney talking to a professional athlete, and
she's talking about everything. Well, I mean,
except her accolades or her
stats or her training or all these things. But this
is what helped you get there. How
(14:43):
do you think using, like, making a difference and
building these relationships. Do you think that's made a. Made your journey
in soccer different than other people's?
What? Give us some. I think. Well, my first
USA camp, they have, like, a character award at the end of every
camp. In my first one I ever went to, it was, like, the first
(15:05):
cycle of U14 or U15. And I remember at the end,
we, like, all had sat down for our closing meeting, and our
coach mentioned. She was like, we have this award I'm gonna give to, like, a
character, Someone who's been a really good character the past week, who's been, like,
helping with gear, like, talking to the
staff, getting to know other people, being there for their teammates, saying thank you to
(15:28):
random people that they see, like the lunch ladies and people who are cleaning up
and stuff like that. And they went on, and I was like, oh, like, I
have no idea. This is going to be. It wasn't even a thought in my
head it was going to be me. And then they were like, okay, Katie Scott,
like, come to the front. And I was like, oh, my gosh. Like, and then
they gave me this, like, jersey. And I just remember it was like, my first
camp ever. And I was like, oh, my God. Like, this is crazy. And they
(15:49):
made me speak. They're like, okay, now, like, say, like, a speech, everyone. I
was like, oh, my God. I just, like, started talking to these girls. I was
like, you guys are the best. Because it was, like, my first time meeting these
girls, and it was, like. It was a ton of fun. But I. I think
that definitely, I think, has helped me. I think
the USA culture is. It's
(16:09):
very specific. Like, you have to be a good person. They really care about who
you are before they care about the soccer player. And I
think I also got the character awarded U16.
And I think over time, like, you don't have to be the
best player on the field. Like, they don't care about that. Bringing someone into
camp. Like, they. They talk about how they watch people
(16:31):
when they leave the field and if they clean up the bench and if they
talk to coaches and look them in the eye and they talk about all these
little things of why we're in camp. And I think people don't really know
that, but I think it's important to, like, realize that these little
things are, like, the reason why players get to where
they are, because those are the coaches realize. Yeah, it
(16:52):
sounds like recruiting. I flew to
California once to watch a kid in the dugout to see what she was do.
What kind of a teammate was whether or not I wanted to spend that much
money to get her in to be on the program. That makes a big
difference. And I remember when you got that, that. That
character award. I probably still have the text message, but I like.
(17:13):
And I, you know, think about what that does for your confidence in your first
trip to the camp. Yeah, I remember. I, like, called you, like, twice. I was
so homesick. And I was like, yes, I remember that. Like, I was, like, so
homesick. Like, I always used to get homesick, I think, just because I was
younger and I didn't know anyone there and I was away for like a week
and a half. Yeah. And I was like, what am I doing? Like, this is
crazy. But I remember calling you and having those conversations, which is
(17:37):
crazy. So. Yep, I remember very specifically as well. And
I. I remember you getting that award, and I remember you, you know, getting, you
know, to the next level and the next level. The next level. What's the
pressure that goes on with that once you're there? And then you go
home for a while when you train with your team and basketball and you're
going to school and then they've got to repick. Right. This is what we do.
(17:59):
Big teams every so often, whether you say softball or
soccer or whatever it is. What is that pressure?
Like, how have you managed that? I mean,
I think just, like, going through the
journey and really believing in, like, what I'm doing
and really, like, focusing on each day. And if I don't get picked for a
(18:19):
camp, which has happened, then move on. And, you know, like, you get
feedback normally. Sometimes you don't, but normally you do. And then
just keep working on those things, I think just not losing faith
and hope and what your goal is. And if I. When I didn't get picked,
I didn't, like, put my head down. I was like, okay, like, it's fine. Like,
it's just one camp, you know, like, I'll get the next one and just, like,
(18:40):
keep working on that. But I think it can be really pressuring. I
think mostly before the World cup, we didn't really know, and it was, like,
right before, and they hadn't sent out the emails. So I think that was also,
like, a lot for us to handle. I know, like, girls text back and forth.
Like, did you get the text? You get the text? It's like, no. Like, do
you get the email? No, I didn't get the email. Like, did you get anything?
And it's like, it's a lot because sometimes you'll get an Email and then a
(19:03):
friend will ask you, did you get it? And you don't want to, like, say
yes and you tell her you didn't make it. And I think it's just like,
like, mentally it's a really stressful week, but I think just trying
to focus on like the now and not be like, oh, if I get picked
or if I don't get picked, this is what's gonna happen. Yeah, But I was
actually hurt before the World cup with a
back issue, so I didn't, I wasn't sure if I was gonna be back. I
(19:26):
didn't even know if I was gonna be back that year. Like, it was like,
it was just like, pretty rough for me. So I think just having the
hope that every day I would just like, be pain free. My back and then
once I was there, just started to grind out. And
then unfortunately when I got to the World Cup, I had another injury the
first week I got there, so I had to go through that.
(19:48):
But I think just being picked and being with the team is also just an
honor. I mean, every time, like, I still get nervous for
the email and it's like, people could be like, oh, you've been on the team
for three years, like, why do you get nervous? It's like, I still get nervous
for camps. Like, I still have like this anxious feeling. And then obviously when you
get there, you're with your girls, it's better. But always just like before, I think
it's just like, it's exciting feeling. Like, it's not like, oh, I'm. I don't want
(20:11):
to go. I'm scared. It's like, I'm excited, but I'm nervous. Like, had to perform
every day and like, yes, they understand, even off day. But it's also
like, they're here, here for a reason. So I think
I'm a player on my team who tries to, like, make sure
girls know that. Like, I want to make sure everyone on our team who's new
knows why they're here. Like, they're here for a reason. They shouldn't be, like,
(20:31):
super, like, you know, like, anxious about it because they're here
and they got here and they worked here to get there. So I'm like, you
have a reason to be here. You're here, like, because you worked for it. So
I think I just try to remind my players that, yeah, they're not. Just
like, right, yeah, right.
Go ahead, Court. I just said, are you sure you're 17? I know.
(20:53):
Very levelheaded for a 17 year. Old Katie.
I look back at myself, I'm like, courtney, you did not have your crap together
compared to this. But I love that. Like, to be able to
process that. And. And I look at this. Jones is like, the people
that are listening to this and the kids that are listening to this, you're like,
oh, wait, my playing time's not the only thing that matters. Oh, wait, like,
(21:14):
you, I should be helping reassure other people. And
you are much younger than even, like, my process of
Julie making us see a sports psychologist and kind of the stuff
she's helping people through now. I was. I was much older. I was in
my 20s until like, those kind of things were coming up. And
I love hearing all of this wonderful. Like, you are not the center
(21:37):
of the universe. You are like, I make everyone else the center of my universe.
And that is so amazing. And to teach young athletes to do that,
my heart is glowing. And you. I mean, I think I give a lot of
credential, Julie, because I think, like, Julie, you helped us at
internationals a ton. I mean, I still use my reset, and it's been,
what, like, four years since you taught me that, and I still
(21:57):
have the same reset. But I think it's just like you've always said, like, when
you're nervous, talk to people and help people and you'll, like, feel
better. And I think I've always used that strategy of just getting myself
out there and helping other people, and all of a sudden I feel better and,
like, more secure about it as well. Okay, timeout for the
listeners. And my. I probably know what you're talking about. Just because of playing for.
(22:18):
What is the reset? What is the secret tool that Julia.
So I do this reset. I just hit my two
legs during a game. Whenever, like, I'm in my head about something, I make a
mistake, I do it right away. And then I, like, just, like, reset and
forget about it. So it's something that just, like, whenever I, like,
catch myself overthinking, I do it. And then I, like, don't do it anymore.
(22:40):
Like, I stop immediately thinking about it. And it definitely took me time. I think
in the beginning I was like, I'm still thinking about it, but I had to,
like, teach my brain and just be like, okay, stop next action, and then move
on and, like, make up for it. Like, now do something that
you're not going to keep getting your head for in a way. So you literally
just, like, erase your memory right away. So that's the reset
(23:02):
I have. It's literally just the most simple like, slap my legs.
Yeah. And I don't want to make it, like, noticeable so no one, like, really
sees me doing it. So it's more just like, when I'm running, I'll hit my
legs and. Yeah. You know, that's great. I love it. Yeah,
I love it. I had to ask what the Secret Club was all about for
our listeners. You know, Kortney, I'm just gonna throw this in real quickly. When you
were a senior, we were. We were so fun to watch. Right? We had such
(23:25):
a nice team, and I loved watching us play. And it would be
like, the sixth inning. I'm like, oh, my gosh, we're gonna win 40 games. Right?
Like, I would, like, start. I was so excited about watching you guys play. I
had. I had to. I had to implement a reset myself. I had to pinch
the side of my leg and tell myself to do my job, because if I.
I would start to look too far ahead. Right, Katie. So you either look at
(23:45):
behind or looking ahead. And I am so
happy to hear that. That is that you have trained
yourself to be, you know, like you said, your next best
action. Right. And the other thing you said that I don't. I
want to make sure that I highlight, too, is that you say you're still nervous,
but that nerve, that. Those nerves and excitement, We've talked about that a million
(24:06):
times. Right? They're the same thing. You just breathe different through them. And you
have trained yourself to take that nervous energy and allow
it to make you be. They say, hey, this. These nerves are
just here to help me go. Right, right,
right. Yeah. I love that. I love that.
Yeah. Kortney, I know she's not really 17. She's, like,
(24:28):
27. Yeah. Like, I mean, she could be 41.
She could be close to me, but I.
I love it. And I look at what
I want my children to listen to and how they. Who I want them to
be in sports, and you are. You are that model for
them. So thank you for being who you are. And I know I just met
(24:50):
you tonight, but you're truly inspiring. Yeah. Thank
you. Thank you. I appreciate that. What do you think the. The.
Maybe it's part of what. The things you've said already, but
what do you think the habits and skills that you
have worked through as you've moved from
internationals to. You moved to a different team, I think
(25:13):
was. I can't remember where you were. And then on to Penn State and then
on, obviously with the US Program. What do you think the habits and
skills are that have really helped you Hone in
or find success. I think I really
started taking care of like my nutrition and my fitness and my recovery
and off the field stuff when I got to internationals. And I think doing
(25:34):
that at such an early age, I mean, I looked up to my older brother
Nick, who was like super strict about everything and then I saw where he went.
So I was like, okay, maybe I was like really young, but I was like,
okay, maybe I should start doing what he's doing. And I think getting on top
of my recovery, in my nutrition, in my sleep,
I think that all affected where I am now just because I started at such
(25:55):
a young age and I felt more fresh once I started getting
everything down. And I feel like I last longer in training and I think
those little habits off the field and I think also like
managing stress. I would make sure I was doing school when I was doing
school, but then when I was at soccer, I was like just focusing on soccer.
Like, I feel like early on in high school I was getting my school,
(26:17):
like mixed up with my soccer and I would be stressed at soccer and I
perform best. So I would make sure, like I was managing my time wisely of
like doing my homework so I'm not stressed for soccer. And then I can go
back and finish my homework. But like making sure when I'm at soccer, it was
just soccer. So I think just getting those little habits down and then
I think mentally just always having in your head, like, this journey
(26:38):
is your journey and you can't compare to anyone else's. I think a
lot of girls can get stuck on, oh, like you're going this college but you
didn't get in this college or they didn't ask me and then, oh, like you
won this game. Or just like comparing those little steps and awards
and little things like that can really make people, like
insecure about like their player they are. So I think just always
(26:59):
having in my head, like, this is my jersey and like, this is
my path and I know whatever happens is meant to happen. I think really believing
in that even with like my injuries, like I went through a few the
past few years and I was like going through it at some like the biggest
times where I had to be ready, like the World cup, for example. I was
like, I'm not going to be able to train or do anything or like even
(27:20):
like I wasn't even able to walk at that time. So I was like, how
am I going to be able to grow cup? So then coming back from that,
I was like, I just trusted his plan. The whole time. And then I
think just really like knowing and never comparing
your path. Anyone else can really help you. You talk about
this, you know, injury, you look at the national championship and wins. Ben, women's
(27:40):
basketball this past weekend. Paige Beckers. Excuse me. And
Azzy, Az Fudd. Both of them had major injuries
throughout their career that most people would have
really struggled with. And here, you know, like, you just don't know what's going
to happen tomorrow. Right? But it's that persistence.
That persistence and that it really. I was just talking to a team today
(28:03):
and I had an equation. It was consistency
is greater than with your less than or greater than over
intensity, right? Yeah. Your
consistency. You. Everything you just said about your sleep, about, you know,
it like, about building relationships. It's that consistency that has
helped you continue to up your level. It's amazing,
(28:25):
right? Yeah. I think that's
a big thing you said is like over intensity. I think I was lucky
to have like Carrie Androthko, who really had a good
plan. And when I went to the national team, it was a good plan of
when to train and when to not train and when to have hard days, when
to have light days. And I feel like a lot of kids over train. And
(28:45):
I was. And I had parents who were like, no,
you're not going to the field today. Like, you're not. I'm not letting you. Like
when it was my off day and they were very like, you're not doing this.
Like, you're off. You're off. And I think I'm very grateful for that. In the
moment, I was definitely like, I'm going to run. Like, no, you're not going to
run. Like, let's go do something. But I think they were only looking out for
me. Now, looking back at it, obviously in the moment, I was like, you're not
(29:08):
letting me train, whatever. But, like, looking back at him, like, they
really helped me because, I mean, I think some of some of my injuries did
come from over training. But then once I looked back, I was like, okay,
I'm gonna really start taking care of this. I mean, even at Penn State, I
feel like they do that well of like making sure. I mean, now
in the levels we're at, like college and pro, it's just very like, you train
(29:30):
your heart and then you have a light day and then you have a medium
day and then hard and then light and then off. Like, it's just very.
Making sure your body's okay for the future. Not even in the moment. It's Just
for the future, for injuries. And stuff, I want to go back to recovery
because we obviously were talking a lot about that and that is something not a
lot of people, parents, kids know about.
(29:51):
So whenever you think of recovery, and I'm gonna say you accelerated quickly
from where you were at high school to where you are today, obviously being 17.
But what is some words of advice that you would talk about recovery, Things to
think about. You just kind of talked about a lot. But what, what advice
could you give in recovery? And I know every sport's different, but talk
about recovery from your perspective and if you would have any advice for
(30:13):
that. I feel like international's really taught me that
recovery off the field is the same about how you train
on the field, like you need to look at it the same. So I would
come home from like a two out rule. I remember every
training they would make me cool down. I would have to like, if I would
have to leave early, they would take me out of training so I could cool
(30:33):
down for 15 minutes. I was like, no, I just want to train and then
leave. Like no, no, no, you're cooling down before you leave. And like I think
looking back at that, I'm like, thank you. Because that helped my body like doing
those little stretches and then going home and doing an ice bath. I did
that all the time and just like doing like Normatec or
finding like I know there's places all around like massage
(30:54):
therapists and like doing like the
cryotherapy and just little things. But I think the sleep was honestly
the most important thing in recovery. So I would just make sure I would like
manage my time throughout the day. That I was getting like eight to nine hours
of sleep every night and if I didn't get it one night, like it wasn't
a big deal. Like I wasn't like overly stressed about like not getting like some
nights I'm gonna have to stay up to study or do something so like it's
(31:18):
okay. But like just making sure throughout the week you're getting a good amount of
sleep. And then when you have off like take those off days and recover
and like, and you might be like, oh, I don't wanna do nothing. Then you
can like do a light like flush on the bike
or just doing little things to get your like, like massage
rollers and stuff like that, like something you can do on your own. But
(31:39):
I think it was just super important with me because it made
me like feel better and feel more fresh for the next
days. And your body also needs rest as well.
Yeah. Good news. Julie and I are on top of recovery.
We get plenty of sleep.
I remember I asked internationals, we did a sleep thing, and I
(32:02):
said, like, you know, the different things. We're looking at our 168 hours
that we have in a week. And I remember how many, like, the
majority of athletes at in that club
are sleep Nazis. And that is amazing because here they are
playing at the highest level, not, you know, for a high school kid.
And that told me something about the seriousness of their training.
(32:24):
Right. And I think, you know, that's something that we
don't think about. And kids are on this so late sometimes,
and this is hurting your performance. I just read something, it says, you know, can
I. Can I go out late? You know, not for, like, young kids, but can
I drink? Can I do all these things and then coach? Yeah, you can do
them all, but it's gonna. You're giving up something
(32:45):
every time you do those things. Right. Right. You're giving
up your best training, you're giving up your best recovery, you're giving up your
best skill, you know, improvement, whatever it is.
You can do anything you want, but they don't all equate to
where you are today. And I think my parents
were also like that with me. Like, they weren't ever like, oh, you can't go
(33:08):
out, or you can't do this because of your performance. Like, they kind of. If
I did something and if I messed up and if I didn't feel my best,
then I would know and I'd be like, okay, yeah, I'm not gonna do the
next time. It's like, okay. Like, they were never like, oh, you can't go hang
out with your friends, or you can't. I don't know, random stuff. You can't. Like.
Like, I would just want to come home and go on an ice bath. Like,
I would want to do all these things. Like, I never really felt pressure from
(33:29):
them being like, oh, you should probably do this. Like, yeah, they were probably like,
you can nap in the car and I'll drive. Like, which is, like, helpful
for me. But, like, I think just having them also
not, like, because I think sometimes when parents can be, like,
overly, like, do this, then we don't want to do it. So I think them
not being pushy towards recovery or my soccer
(33:52):
life, it helps me motivate me to want to do that stuff.
What about when you screwed up? How'd they handle it when you screwed up? We
talked to them a little bit about that. What Was their response to you not
playing your best? Or what is their response? Or, like, when you. When you weren't
in a lineup, like, or you. Or you don't get to, you know, you're not
at the top of the hill. How do they manage that? And
(34:12):
then I'm going to ask how that helped you or hurt you. Yeah, I think.
Well, I would always put it in perspective whenever things are going on.
Obviously, my older brother Nick hasn't had the easiest path. So whenever I
wouldn't start or I want to make a travel roster, things like that, I would
always. Just during those conversations I was having with the coach, I'd be like, okay,
like, imagine Nick. Imagine how he is now and his belief and his
(34:34):
faith that got him to where he is now. And I think just always having
that. But my parents really, like, I would tell them and they would just
be like, okay, like, it's all good. Like, trust this plan and
you're going to be good. And it's just, like, simple things. They don't, like, keep
it going and keep talking about it. Like, they know, like, to just not. I
mean, obviously I'm upset about it. I'm not going to be happy about that. And
(34:55):
they know to just, like, get my mind off of it. Like, they'll call me
and be like, okay, let's talk about this. And, like, they're not trying to
be like, oh, distract me from it in a way. They're not
trying to like. But they'll be like, oh, do you want to talk about it?
And I'm like, yeah, I'll talk about it. But if I'm like, no, like, okay,
I guess, fine, maybe don't talk about it. I think they. They just understand. I
think also they went through the sports and they understand that it
(35:17):
just is not fun when you. That you're in the situation. So you don't want
to keep trying to, like, be in the situation with another
conversation with another person in a way. So I think they just, like,
are like, okay, it happens. You know, you're gonna be
fine. It's all part of your journey. You're this age, you're young, you're
fine, and move on. And then I'm like, okay, you're right.
(35:39):
And when you think of that approach where, hey, do you
want to talk about it or not? I had a rule with my mom that
she wasn't allowed to talk to me until after I had dinner. Right. Because it
just was better for everybody in the house. But, like, when you look at it
from A mental performance perspective. We're constantly asking athletes
to, you know, take what they didn't like and
(36:00):
then imagine it in the way that they wanted it so they can move on
from that mistake and not take it. But then people come in afterwards and
keep hammering the mistake in.
I don't know who that's helping. Yeah, I mean, I just feel
like we know the mistake and we know what we
want, and it's just like, yes, it motivates me. It
(36:22):
only motivates me to want to make the starting lineup or want to make the
travel roster. So it's like having other pressure of people being like, why aren't you
making it? Or, what can you do better? It's like, we know we're doing better,
or we can do better. We know, like, it already doesn't feel good. And
I think just them understanding and being super
helpful with not asking so many questions or being like, why is this
(36:44):
happening? Like, there's like, okay, like, it's fine. Move on, and you're going to
be fine. But I think keeping it going and
continuing to, like, get in your head about it can only make it worse if
you just keep talking about it, because then you just overthink and you're like, what
am I doing wrong? Like, it's like, you're not doing anything wrong. It's just not
your time right now. Like, it'll come. Like, and I understand that. I'm 17, playing
in a pro league. Like, I understand my time's not here right now for playing,
(37:07):
which is, like, I'm fine. I love my environment. I love the girls. Like,
the girls that play over me. I'm, like, best friends with. I'm like, like, you're
great. You're amazing. Like, I'm. There's no, like,
the environment right now. I'm in none of, like, jealousy
or any of that going on. I think being around those girls who, like, help
me and want me to be better. Like, girls were in my position who were
(37:29):
like, you did great today. I'm so proud of you. I'm like. Makes me feel
really good because I'm like, no matter what, people are for me and, like, helping
me in this situation, and I think my parents know that, too, as
well. I have people to talk to if I'm down, you know, like, at my
environment right now. So I think in growing up as well, they knew
I always had someone, like, I had you to talk to, Julie, and they knew
(37:49):
that, like, I'd be like, okay, I'm calling Julie. They got camps for an example
with USA when I was like 15 or 16, I'd be like,
yeah, like today's hard. But I talked to Julie and I would like,
kind of say what they said, say what you said to me. And they'd be
like, oh, that's great. Like, that's awesome. And then just like giving
them like, I know they're not professionals at helping me. I mean, it's not their
(38:09):
job to know, like, how to like, mentally help someone like you do. So
I think going to you about that was very grateful to have you. And then
just going back and giving them that advice. And then they would come to
me after about that. So say I was having a hard day. They'd be like,
remember what Julie said. I'm like, okay, you're right. So I think telling them what
you said was helpful because they would come back to me and explain to
(38:30):
me and be like, remember the concept she said of, you know, the reset and
the next action or how it's okay to have bad days and little things like
that. So I think having you and me talking to my parents about it helped
a ton as well. It's a good perspective to think. I never really
looked at that way. But you have someone then to remind you. Sometimes we just
need a gentle reminder. It's not. They weren't even giving you advice. They're just, hey,
(38:52):
you already know this. Pull it back up. Right? Like keeping me accountable
to what I'm saying. Yeah. On the days I don't want to feel accountable or
be accountable. So. Okay, remember this. I'm like, you're right. Yeah,
that's good. Okay, so I want to know
what other club I missed. What other mental strategies did
Julie talk to you about? Or do you have through your
(39:14):
journey to stay composed? Because you really do have to stay composed.
From getting recruited to a high level college, to playing on
the US Team to. To where you are today. What other
mental strategies do you have in your back pocket? I think, Julie, you always
talk, like, pressures of privilege. And I think, like,
that the pressure that I was getting was all. It was good
(39:37):
pressure. Like it was for things that I wanted to
achieve. And I never looked at it as like, oh, like, they're putting so much
pressure on me. I have to do this, have to do this. Like, oh, I
want to do that. So put pressure on me. Like, it makes people, like, more
excited for it in a way. Shoot. Sorry, my, my laptop
is weird. And I think you also just talked
about, like, we do this because we love what we do. And I just like,
(39:59):
that stuck with me because, like, we don't have to be doing what we're doing,
but I love what I'm doing. And I think it's all about the journey. And
I know that when things get hard, there's the other side of it. Like, what
is it all for? And just remembering why I play the game and why I
love the game. And like those. There's gonna be days where obviously it's hard
and you're like, why am I doing this? And there's days like, okay, this is
(40:20):
why it's worth it. And those days are. I think the bad
days are good because it really makes you like, work, right? And like be like,
okay. I don't know, it's like more of like a mental reset day. You're like,
okay, like say in it mentally. Because when those day come that is really good,
you're gonna like, that's why I did this. So I think, Julie, like, you
just teaching that of like the mental aspect of it. Like, your body might
(40:41):
be tired, like, might be stressed and overwhelmed, but, like, if
you mention can get through it, then you're going to be fine because your body,
your physically isn't stopping you. It's your mental. And I think that was huge. Me
that stuck with me. I remember telling you, like, we did. The
why on that, like episode three and four of this podcast. Like, it kind
of like, right in. She pulled it right in, you
(41:03):
know, because it is hard. And you signed up for uncertainty. You signed up for
pressure when you knew that you wanted to take this journey. Like, you knew you
were just going to skate through it to get there. You're playing with the best
in the world. Yeah, right? Yeah. And it's
like, yeah, like, some people are like, why don't you stay in college? You
could be playing or why don't you stay at club or a high school? You
(41:24):
could be playing for your high school and being a big star. But it's like
I wanted, I didn't want that path for me. Like, I wanted to be challenged
at this age. So then when I'm older, like, I feel more comfortable.
And I think, like, looking at the league, there's a lot of older players in
it right now. And it's like, I want to be those girls one day who
like, are inspired by others. And like, I want to be
like the girl I look up to in my club right now. And it's like,
(41:46):
I'm so glad I made this journey because I'm surrounded and playing with these
Amazing women who have been through my spot. They've
been not playing or not traveling and they understand. So it's not like I have
girls who are like, oh, like rude to me about it. Like, you're good, like
your time's going to come. And it's like having those players on my team and
being in that environment is super helpful as well. Let's talk about
(42:08):
those players for just a second. What do you see as the
characteristics that really shine in
these amazing athletes that you're around? What, what, what are the commonalities?
What, what are you seeing? These people, Honestly,
everyone has fun. Like that kind of sounds like crazy, but like
literally the second we got on the field, we're laughing and having fun. Like,
(42:31):
you can tell everyone loves the game. Like even in our meetings, our co host
would come in and make a crack a joke and everyone's just like laughing and
we have music every day, like so loud. Like fun music. We're all
dancing and it's like everyone loves what we're doing and everyone's
happy and fun. And maybe not everyone's happy every day, but everyone shows that
they're having fun. Right. And like we give energy and we give our best
(42:53):
every day. And I think showing up and everyone doing that, giving their best every
day, like you can tell everyone's here and mentally and
physically, like, no matter what, if we're tired, we're there. Like we're going to show
up every day to be our best. And I think it's just everyone has fun.
We love to compete. Like, I think that's huge. We always do,
like competitions all the time. But I think it's like when we
(43:14):
celebrate, we celebrate, like we make sure we know, we make it known that we
want. It's like little things like where we have fun with it and, and I
think that's the biggest thing is just we compete and have fun. Like
everyone you can tell loves the game and loves what we're doing. And I think
it's cool to be around that because, you know, in high school some people maybe
aren't loving the game or in clubs, some parents are be forcing the kid to
(43:36):
play or want to go to another sport for college. And it's like being
in an environment where this is our job and the women love what
we do is just so fun to be around.
Yeah. And you mentioned how supportive everyone was. So not only you're
supportive, you're competitive to the hill and then
you are. I mean, you're having. There's, there's no better
(43:58):
atmosphere. I mean, even when I got called for national team camp,
like, so super, like, congratulations. Like, so many people texting me.
I come in to training today, and I was gone for a week. It's like,
we missed you. Like, we're so happy you're back. And I'm like, you don't have
to say anything to me, but, like, you guys are going out of your way
to be, like. You know what I mean? Like, I'm, what, 17? And they're way
older than me. Like, they do not have to be, like, looking out for me,
(44:19):
but you can tell they look out for me and really treat me with, like,
kindness, which, like, it's just so good to be around.
Are there different pressures in the pro setting than there are in
the international. On the National Team setting?
I think. Well, I mean, the
national team, I feel like it's just the biggest honor. I mean,
(44:42):
wearing the crest and, like, singing the national anthem, like, hits me every
time. And it's just, like. Because it's like, I think for my country and,
like, I played in really big games for the national team, so I think
it's just really hit me. Sorry. Someone just walked
by. My teammates walked by
for Kansas City. I think that was always a dream of mine,
(45:05):
to be proud. And I think it's just like. It's like a different feeling. Like,
I don't even know how to explain it. Like, the pressure for. I don't. The
thing is, like, I don't really. Like, I feel pressure, but, like, it's more, like,
on myself. Like, no. No one else is like, oh, you have to do this.
You have to perform like this. Like, it's the pressure I put on myself. So
I think for my national team, I'm like, okay, Katie, like, be one of the
captains today and lead your team. Whereas Kansas City, I'm like,
(45:28):
okay, learn from someone today. Like, really take in what these women are giving you,
because they're the best in the world, and I can learn so
much from them in just a day. I mean, same with my national team, but
I think my national team, I'm a little bit more involved, and
it's like, I'm more comfortable with the girls, obviously. I've been with them for, like,
three years, so I think playing with them, it's a little different than my
(45:49):
pro team, just because I'm still getting to know my pro team. I've been with
them only for a few months, but I think just trying to learn from
them every day. You're a professional soccer
Player. And you just said that every day you need to
learn from the people that you're working with. And I think that is. I think
we lose that. I just talked in my class today, I teach at Akron about,
(46:10):
you know, every single amazing athlete has
a coach, right? Every, like, Simone Biles has a
coach. You know, Djokovic has a coach. You name the
sport, they all have coaches, you know, and
because they have to continue to learn, some. They've got to look and see what
other. What other places they can get to. And what you just said
(46:32):
is that every day in this environment is like a
classroom. Right? Right. Yeah. I
think. I mean, on and off the field. I mean, in lifts
and just, like, in the lunchroom or evening in their breakfast room.
It's like, I'm always just learning. Not even soccer.
Like, it's just off the field of how you are as a person and how
(46:53):
they treat people and what they're doing with their days off and how they're helping
people or, like, with school and how they're learning and just, like,
getting to know these girls, I learned so much from them. And then obviously, on
the field, I'm playing with the best of the best, so, like, just seeing little
things they do. I think it's just super important to be surrounded by
these type of people in, like, every day,
(47:15):
on and off the field, which I'm, like, blessed to. Be a part of, and
constantly observing the landscape and picking up all the. All the. It's amazing. What
an amazing opportunity. Yes. Yeah.
It's crazy. I have a question now that you're, like,
just to see you and, like, how you light up, my
question to you is, looking beyond soccer, how do you
(47:37):
define success for yourself? How do you define
what's next for Katie? How do you define what's good for Katie?
Because it seems like your lens of focus changes every day. So I love that.
But how do you define success? I
think. I don't think it comes down to, like, winning or losing
or, like, those little things. I think it's just, like, how I feel with
(47:59):
myself, and then how I feel. I make other players feel around me
as well. Like, if I'm making players feel like. Like, for example, on
my national team, I want them to feel confident and be, like, creative in what
they're doing, and I want us to make mistakes, and I want us to be
a team that if someone's saying something wrong, at least we're on the same
page. Like, don't be scared to talk on the field or communicate
(48:20):
and I think with my cap, I was the captain recently with the
national team and it's just like making sure everyone on my team
feels the same. There's no captain or not captain. We're all captains. And I make
sure, like, people know that, like, you have a voice. Like, just because someone's wearing
an armband, I have an armband on, it doesn't mean I'm different than you or
I'm better than you. Like, we're all good and we're all reasons why we're good.
(48:41):
And I think making sure people around, around me on my team
utilize their strengths, I think that is what I feel good about
because I think once we do that, then what we want will come from
it. Like, don't worry. We don't worry so much about. We just had a
game and we weren't like, okay, we're going to, we want to win this game.
We're like, okay, we're going to do this and then we're going to have a
good outcome. Like, we're going to have this type of shape and we're going to
(49:03):
all shift together. And like, we were really focusing on defensively
and how we were defensively. So I think when we got those down,
the attacking just came with it because we have good opportunities to attack. So I
think making sure everyone around me feels comfortable is when I'm really happy
with my game. And you just threw in there too. A whole
process over outcome discussion. Right. Here's what we're going
(49:25):
to do in order to get as close to our outcome as possible. We don't
control outcomes, but you're talking about your shape and your shift and
allowing yourself to then open up the attack. That's process the things you can
control. And you saying, okay, I need everybody around me to
feel confident so that they can be creative. Right?
Right. And consistent and comfortable and all those things.
(49:47):
Right. And if the leader, if you're the
leader and you provide what they. They call this psychological safety.
Right. You can talk with Amy Edmondson from North Northwestern. That's her
thing, the researcher. And that is the one thing
that makes programs and people
successful. Right. This word didn't even happen when I, like when
(50:09):
I was coaching Kortney there. I didn't know it. So we didn't talk about psychological
safety. Right. I think we had it. I think we had. Well, I think
Dr. Ziegler did like Dr. Ziegler did to an extent. Because
if I threw a ball and she's like, your shortstop messed up, say, hey, it's
my fault. I threw one over the plate. It's the same kind of concept.
You're right. It wasn't. But it wasn't. It didn't have a name and a formal
(50:30):
thing and. But it is true. When you're taking
pressure off of that person, they're like, okay, yeah, you're right. That wasn't my fault.
I got this. Like, you create a bond that is
much more forged in strength than anything else. Right. And I
also, like, I'm going to mess up, so, like, I'm going to own it, so
I want everyone else to feel that way, too. Like, it's okay to mess up.
(50:51):
We're all going to mess up. I mean, mess up so many times in soccer,
it's like, that's what we do. So, like, when we do good, it's like,
we got to make. We got to capitalize all the time. We're really good on
it. But I think making sure people. I think it's being on the same page,
too. Like, communication is huge. Most in the backline where I play. So I think
communicating to my team, even if it's not what they want, at least we're all
(51:11):
on the same page and something is going to come out of it because we're
on the same page. If we're on the same page and someone goes. And then
the other lines drop and it's going to be, like, all spread out, and then
our communication is off. So I think just making sure that, like I
said, everyone feels comfortable and can talk what they want to say and
communicate with everyone. It just makes the environment good to be around.
(51:31):
And if everyone's talking, you're like, I use this example today. You're driving down
the street and you're in a car with somebody else, and someone says, hey, did
you see that yellow Lamborghini? You're like, no,
because you're looking out two different windows. You're in the same exact time, same exact
road, same exact environment, but you're seeing different things. And on. On
the pitch, you're seeing different things. And being able to communicate those things makes everybody
(51:52):
better because you can't see everything. Right? Right?
Yeah. Huge. Absolutely huge. Very good,
Julie. We're at. We're. We're close to our hour. Do you have any
more questions to ask, Katie? Because I probably know you have one more brewing in
your brain, because I know you do. You have one more. Before
we start wrapping up this conversation.
(52:16):
As you. As you've gone through and
you've faced adversity and you've faced
Challenges of not playing and playing and, you know, not being picked
and picked. How. What. How has
that shaped your ability
to play soccer better?
(52:38):
I think my past injury,
where really it took me out of the game, I think being
able to realize what I got back from, I didn't
really think I was gonna be able to come back to how I was so
quickly. So I think being able to come back so quickly, really,
and just having the faith that I did through that hard time of, everything's gonna
(52:58):
be fine, like, this is just a moment of my little journey,
my journey that's here right now. And it's like, I think having
the perspective is, like, this is just in
a moment thing, and you're gonna get over it. But those, like, really,
I think, hit me a lot, mostly because I find so much joy in the
game of soccer. So when that's taken away from me, it's like, oh, gosh.
(53:20):
Like, I'm. Like, it just definitely, like, it's just different
for me. Right. I play soccer every day, so when I'm injured or something's not
going right, I can't play. I feel like it just, like, takes a tool on
me. So I think just being grateful every day that I have
the opportunity to play soccer and be with my teammates, and even when I wasn't
playing, but I was still on the field with my teammates and able to be
(53:42):
there, I was happy. And I wasn't in the PT room or at doctor's
appointments, like, when I was on the field with them, I was happy. And then
even, I mean, off the field, I was able to do, like, film and learn
from that. So I think even when you're hurt, like, you can still learn from
the game. Like, watch the game, talk with your coach, like, have conversations where you
can do better when you're back. So I think, really, when things
(54:04):
aren't going well and you're not on the field and you can't play, it's. What
can you do to continue to get better? Because you can have conversations with your
coach and watch film and go over that. But I think just being grateful every
day that you do have the opportunity, because when you go through a lot,
it just really puts it in perspective of how lucky I am to have the
health that I am to play. Yeah, that's awesome.
(54:24):
Yes. You can mentally rehearse whenever you
wanted.
From Julie as we speak. Katie, thank
you so much for taking the time. I love this that you are a true
inspiration to anybody in athletics and. Or
if not athletics, if they're overcoming in your perspective
(54:45):
of life and how you really look through a lens.
It is so unique and so wonderful. And I am so happy
that Julie has brought you on this because I truly enjoyed
listening to you and I wish you the best so much. Thank you. So
I could be here. Yeah, we, I, I, I am so proud
of you. I'm not surprised by any accolade that you
(55:08):
ever acquire, but I'm so proud of you and, and
of the human being that you are. And I hope that young athletes that
are listening to this heard the relationships, the
persistence, the mental. I mean, it's not been totally
easy, right? There's nothing's easy. And I hope that they've heard the advice that you
have given and the things that you have done that have helped you overcome and
(55:30):
continue to climb. Because your story is awesome.
Thank you. Thank you. I really appreciate it. You're totally making a
difference. It is tattooed on you and you are living
it every day. So thank you. We appreciate you so much. Thank you.
Thank you so much. Thanks so much for joining us
on Game Changers Athlete edition. Remember, champions
(55:53):
aren't born. They're built through dedication, perseverance,
and the right mindset. If you found value in today's episode, share
it with a teammate, with a coach, or someone who could benefit from
this conversation. Don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcast
and follow us on social media for exclusive content and daily
motivation. Until next time, keep pushing your limits and stay
(56:15):
focused on becoming the game changer you are meant to be.
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