The US women’s national team (USWNT) has always faced enormous pressure to perform at the highest level in every major tournament they participate in. It is widely accepted that anything less than winning the trophy at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup would be considered a failure for the team. However, these expectations don’t only apply to the players but also to the coaches. As the team prepares to stay in New Zealand and Australia for an extended period, managing stress becomes crucial for both mental and physical well-being.
Unwinding Amidst a Busy Schedule
The USWNT’s schedule is packed with various team activities such as training, meetings, and video analysis. The players understand that they are not on vacation but rather on a mission to perform at their best during the tournament. While there may not be much free time available, the team has structured their schedule to include some downtime. However, the definition of downtime can vary from player to player.
Recovery and Mental Breaks
Recovery plays a significant role in allowing the players to relax and rejuvenate their bodies and minds between practices and games. The team provides several recovery modalities, including cryotherapy and treatment in the training room. These activities not only help the players physically but also provide a social aspect to their downtime. Even when they take a rest or mental break, it is always with the intention of improving their performance on the field.
Challenges of Balancing Motherhood and Competition
For defender Crystal Dunn, the concept of free time has drastically changed since becoming a mother in May 2022. She now spends most of her time taking care of her son, Marcel. Balancing her responsibilities as a mother with her commitment to the team requires making tough choices. Sometimes, Dunn has to prioritize treatments over spending time with her family. However, she has learned to accept the necessary balance and trust others to take care of her child when needed.
To further unwind, the players often gather in the team’s lounge area. Forward Lynn Williams humorously recalls how Dunn frequently visits her room early in the morning, seeking company. This relaxed environment allows the players to bond and enjoy each other’s company, fostering team unity.
As the World Cup progresses, the players find joy in watching games together in the lounge. Forward Sophia Smith emphasizes the importance of being present and fully experiencing the tournament, reminding her teammates to cherish these moments. Coffee breaks and book discussions serve as additional outlets for socializing and diverting attention from the tournament’s pressures.
Smith has taken the initiative to start an unofficial book club within the team. While the players don’t read the same books simultaneously, Smith recommends books to her teammates, sparking their interest in reading. Gaming also provides an escape for some players, with Trinity Rodman bringing her PlayStation along to play Fortnite during their downtime.
Midfielder Andi Sullivan has chosen a more traditional form of entertainment by indulging in physical puzzles, specifically 500-piece jigsaw puzzles. Although it may seem like a simple activity, it allows her to relax and pass the time in short intervals.
With the demands of the tournament constantly increasing, finding ways to relieve stress becomes crucial for the USWNT. These various activities and moments of relaxation help the players maintain a healthy balance and focus on performing their best on the field.
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