Episode 222: Megan Rapinoe, Ali Krieger, Christine Sinclair, Julie Ertz

As we see an end to 2023, we also say goodbye to a few of our favorite players who have announced their retirements – Megan Rapinoe, Ali Krieger, Christine Sinclair, and Julie Ertz. In this episode, we hear from these iconic players as they look back on their careers and the legacies they leave.

We also hear from Lauren Barnes as she shares her thoughts on longtime friend and teammate Megan Rapinoe – Get out the tissues!!

Time Stamps:

Megan Rapinoe – 6’

Lauren Barnes – 12’

Ali Krieger – 16′

Christine Sinclair – 26’

Julie Ertz – 32′

Soundbites courtesy of US Soccer, Canada Football Association, and the NWSL.

Episode Links

Ali Krieger on Episode 38 of WWFShow – https://wwfshow.com/2015/02/16/kriegs/

Christine Sinclair on Episode 42 of WWFShow – https://wwfshow.com/2015/04/27/sincy/

More WWFShow Links:

Follow Women’s World Football Show on Facebook, Instagram, and our blog at wwfshowblog.com.

Listen to Women’s World Football Show on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, Spreaker, TuneIn Radio, Google Play, Castbox, Stitcher, Soundcloud, and direct from our website at www.WWFShow.com.

Logo Art by Patty La Bella / Images via Shutterstock

Original Broadcast Date: December 3, 2023

Women’s World Football Show is hosted, written, edited, and produced by Patty La Bella.

Additional assistance for this episode by US Soccer, Canada Soccer Association, and National Women’s Soccer League.

Women’s World Football Show website design and theme music by Patricia La Bella

Women’s World Football Show® is a registered trademark and its audio and logo cannot be used without expressed written authorization.

Episode 152: Jodie Taylor

Women’s World Football Show, Episode 152 features an exclusive interviews with England striker Jodie Taylor; Editor of She Kicks Women’s Football Magazine Jen O’Neill; and USWNT Head Coach Jill Ellis.

The game is growing all over the world, but no place faster than in England. This is thanks in part to the success of the Lionesses of England, the Women’s Super League, Championship League, and media including TV broadcasts, websites, and magazines dedicated to women’s football. On this episode, we focus on the rise of women’s football in England with featured guest England striker Jodie Taylor and editor of She Kicks Women’s Football magazine Jen O’Neill. Plus we hear from Jill Ellis on the eve of her departure as head coach of the USWNT.

Jodie Taylor

To say Jodie Taylor is a well-traveled player is an understatement. Beginning her club career with Tranmere Rovers as a youth, Jodie ventured from her home at 18 to play college football at Oregon State University. It was a hard time leaving her urban home to a remote town in the USA, but it was the start of a unique road that would lead all the way to the National Team. Jodie generously takes on her football journey with honesty, humor, and foresight.

Jodie didn’t follow the conventional path we see in most players at this level. In fact, you could say Jodie Taylor paved her own path to become one of the top players in the world and a true role model for young people to follow. This interview breaks down the mystery that is Jodie Taylor! (10′)

Jill Ellis

Jill Ellis, who led the U.S. Women’s National Team to historic back-to-back FIFA Women’s World Cup titles in Canada (2015) and France (2019), will step down as head coach following the completion of the Victory Tour in early October, 2019. Listen in as the coach tells us what she hopes her legacy will be and what her future holds. (41′)

Jen O’Neill

Editor of She Kicks Women’s Football Magazine Jen O’Neill makes her WWFShow debut! One of the more respected voices in women’s football in the UK, Jen stops by to talk about the Lionesses, their 2019 Women’s World Cup performance, the future of the team, as well as the upcoming FAWSL and Championship, and a lot more! (46′)

Follow Jen on Twitter @SheKicksDotNet
Take a sneak peek of the digital issue of SheKicks!

More WWFShow Links:
Follow Women’s World Football Show on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and our blog at wwfshowblog.com.

Listen to Women’s World Football Show on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, Spreaker, TuneIn Radio, Google Play, Stitcher, Soundcloud, and direct from our website at www.WWFShow.com.

Photo Courtesy of: Reign FC

Original Broadcast Date: August 11, 2019

Women’s World Football Show is hosted, written, edited & produced by Patty La Bella.

Additional assistance for this episode by Reema Patel (Reign FC); US Soccer; and Jen O’Neill (She Kicks Women’s Football Magazine).

Women’s World Football Show website design and theme music by Patricia La Bella

Women’s World Football Show® is a registered trademark and it’s audio and logo cannot be used without expressed written authorization.

Episode 116: Indigo Gibson, Hayley Sinclair, Pamela Del Olmo

Episode 116: Women’s World Football Show welcomes Chicago Red Stars defender Indigo Gibson; Rangers WFC midfielder Hayley Sinclair; and a Liga MX Femenil report with Mexico correspondent Pamela Del Olmo.

Indigo Gibson
There’s a new star heading to Chicago and her name is Indigo Gibson. Join us as we introduce the young defender from University of California, Berkeley to NWSL fans. Indigo Helped the Cal defense concede the fewest goals (9) in the Pac-12 and was selected as a MAC Hermann Semifinalist (the first Cal player to be honored as a semifinalist since Alex Morgan). A First-Team All-Pac-12 selection in 2017, Gibson played every minute in the regular season, helping the Golden Bears to a 13-6-1 record.

Selected 18th overall in the 2018 NWSL College Draft by Rory Dames, Indigo will help bring leadership and consistency to the backline of the Chicago Red Stars, especially as some of the veterans leave for national team duty. Listen to Indigo’s unique experiences in both the USA U-23 camp and the Canada youth squads. Indigo’s story is a special one that spans across Canada, England, California, and now Chicago! (9:40’)
Follow Indigo on Twitter @schminnyrae

Haley Sinclair
Midfielder Hayley Sinclair is one of the most exciting up and coming players in Scotland. In this exclusive interview, Adam talks with the Rangers WFC midfielder about her time with the Scotland youth teams, her aims for the season, and what it was like moving from arch rivals Celtic to Rangers, a move that very few players male or female make.

As a full-time student and pro footballer, Hayley shares with us experiences playing in the Old Firm game and how the excitement is spreading to the women’s game, the growth of women’s football game in Scotland, some of her longterm goals, and more! (34:00’)
Follow Hayley on Twitter @hayleysinclair8

Liga MX Femenil & Mexico WNT
Women’s World Football Show Mexico correspondent Pamela Del Olmo drops by update us on Mexico’s newest league, Liga MX Femenil. What is it about this league that is registering an average of 3,492 spectators per match, not to mention the two post-season matches that drew record-setting crowds of 28,955 and 32,466 fans?! However, the league isn’t without it’s controversies. Pamela breaks it all down for us, plus gives the basics and shares which teams and players we should be watching.

Then, Pamela gives us a much-needed update on the Mexico Women’s National Team as they head into a Women’s World Cup qualifying year, including a couple of friendlies with bitter rival USA, and MORE! Missing Mexico? We got you covered! (1:08:00’)
Follow Pamela on Twitter @pndom

Plus
Westfield W-League Grand Final review; News from NWSL, SWPL and FAWSL; England and USA SheBelieves Cup roster reports; and More!

Photos Courtesy of: Cal Bears; Chicago Red Stars; Rangers WFC;

Women’s World Football Show website design and theme music by Patricia La Bella

Women’s World Football Show® is a registered trademark and it’s audio and logo cannot be used without expressed written authorization.

Episode 114: Sullivan, Sonnett, Davidson, Butler, Nadim

Episode 114: Women’s World Football Show features interviews with USWNT players Andi Sullivan, Emily Sonnett, Tierna Davidson and Head Coach Jill Ellis; One-on-one with Millwall Lionesses LFC defender Jordan Butler; and an exclusive with Denmark and Manchester City striker Nadia Nadim.

Boston Breakers
It’s a sad day for the NWSL and women’s football as the longest running professional women’s soccer team in the USA has folded after a deal for potential new ownership fell apart. The Breakers were founded in 2000 and were part of NWSL predecessor leagues the WUSA and WPS, and is the first NWSL team to fold since the league was established in 2013. So how did the demise of one of the more storied franchises in women’s soccer history come about? Patty and Adam dissect the situation and share details of the dispersion draft, season ticket refunds and other information.

2018 NWSL College Draft
A few draft day mega-trades overshadowed the 2018 NWSL College Draft. Adam and Patty take a close look at the trades, the high selections and some of the surprises. Plus, Patty chats with the No. 1 draft pick and newest member of the Washington Spirit Andi Sullivan! We find out how the Stanford standout dealt with the crazy course of events that lead up to her 11th hour declaration into the draft, her thoughts on playing for her hometown team, her incredible 2017 college season and more!
(Andi Sullivan 24:35’)

Jordan Butler
Adam sits down with Millwall Lionesses LFC defender Jordan Butler. Joining the Millwall system at only 8 years old, Jordan shares what it’s like to grow up in a Millwall kit. Backed by the love and support of her family, and especially her dad, Jordan takes us through her journey to play professional football, how she overcame serious injury and more. This is a spirited interview with an inspirational player and proud to have Jordan on the show!
(Jordan Butler 33:00’)

USA vs Denmark
The U.S. Women’s National Team kicked off its 2018 campaign with a somewhat come-from-behind 5-1 win against EURO Women’s runner-up Denmark in front of 17,526 fans at SDCCU Stadium January 21, 2018. We hear from USWNT Head Coach Jill Ellis as she assesses a few of the youngsters on the team and reflects on some of her lessons learned while being at the helm of the national team.

Defender Tierna Davidson earned her first cap for the USA, becoming the 21st player to make a WNT debut under Jill Ellis. We hear from the 19-year old college sophomore after her first cap. Patty couldn’t let Denmark leave town without talking to fan-favorite Nadia Nadim. The former NWSL star and now striker with Manchester City discusses her transition to the English league, her time in the NWSL, the Denmark WNT and more!
(Tierna Davidson 55:55’; Jill Ellis 58:00’; Nadia Nadim 1:08:00’)

Emily Sonnet

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – DECEMBER 06: Emily Sonnett of Sydney FC poses during a joint Sydney FC. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

As the 2017/18 W-League season comes to an end, we catch up with Sydney FC (and USWNT and Portland Thorns FC) centerback Emily Sonnett! The energetic USA star talks about her journey to Australia – what brought her there, what is she learning and what does she hope to gain? We hear it all. Plus, how does playing for Sydney kept her fit and ready to take on her role with the USWNT? Emily is rapid fire with her responses and ready to hoist another league trophy… this time with Sydney FC!
(Emily Sonnet 1:26:00’)

Sarah “The Cowgirl” Hallett
Our hearts were broken earlier this month at the passing of our friend and colleague Sarah Hallett. In this show, we share stories on how Sarah touched all of our lives on the show and off. Plus, we have a special clip of some of Sarah’s greatest hits (and a few misses). A true inspiration to all who knew her, Sarah’s kind spirit will live on in all of us.
Read Sarah’s past blogs.
Listen to Episode 57 “2015 NWSL Review” when Sarah stepped in a co-hosted with Patty
Other shows Sarah was featured on:
Episode 26A “2014 NWSL Post-Season Special”
Episode 47 “World Cup Groups”
Episode 68 “The Good Fight”

In lieu of flowers and gifts, Sarah’s wife and family have asked for donations to the San Diego Junior Golf Association. Click here for details.

Listen to Sarah’s “Greatest Hits” clip at the end of the show, around the 1-hour, 31-minute mark.

Original Broadcast Date: January 28, 2018

Photos courtesy of: ussoccer.com; SydneyFC.com; ManCity.com; Henning Bagger/Scanpix2016; Jordan Butler; Millwall Lionesses

Episode 109: Jordyn Huitema, Julie Ertz, Sofia Huerta

Episode 109 of Women’s World Football Show features exclusive interviews with Canada striker Jordyn Huitema, and USA stars Julie Ertz and Sophia Huerta. Plus sound bites from head coaches Jill Ellis (USA) and John Herdman (Canada).

Jordyn Huitema
The 16-year old striker from Chilliwack, B.C. is already making a name for herself as the future of Canadian soccer. Jordy takes the time to let us know a little more about how she discovered soccer, how growing up in a competitive household helped shape her desire to be the best, and what its like to be compared to Christine Sinclair.

The 5-foot-9 (and growing!) football phenom also chats about her first cap at Algarve 2017, the USA vs Canada experience and where she sees herself after high school. Whether or not you are a Canadian supporter, you’ll want to get to know Jordyn Huitema – She’s going to be around for awhile. (9:45′)

Julie Ertz and Sofia Huerta
When in Rome – err Santa Clara… We couldn’t visit Avaya Stadium without talking to two of the biggest names to come out of Santa Clara University soccer program – USA defenders Julie Ertz and Sofia Huerta. We go back in time when Julie was called Johnston and played just about every position for the Broncos. What were some of her favorite memories of those days and how has she evolved into the leader she is today. As always, Julie gives us thoughtful answers. (24:55′)

Next up, we visit wth the pride of Boise, Idaho Sofia Huerta. The amicable defender is finding her way on the USA team shortly after trading in her Mexico jersey for the USA crest. As the first ever to play for and against US Soccer, Sofia shares her thoughts on the milestone event. Plus, how much pressure does she feel now that she’s donning the USA shirt? How has Ertz influenced her on and off the pitch? And how important was it for her to take her game to the Australian W-League? Sofia lets us in on these questions and MORE! (28′)

Jill Ellis and John Herdman
It can’t be a rivalry without chatting to the gaffers. USA head coach Jill Ellis schools us on the making of a winning team just in time for Women’s World Cup 2019. Is her USA team really set? Is there room on the team for Ali Krieger and Meghan Klingenberg? Is Naeher her Number One keeper? Jill breaks it down as simply as possible! (16:20)

We also hear from Canada Head Coach John Herdman, who is over the moon about his new Canadian team. The colorful coach talks about his young team, the future of the team and the growth of Jordyn Huitema. (7:25)

Bonus: Stay to the end of the show, and we have bonus soundbites from both Ellis and Herdman, giving their individual perspectives on the USA vs. Canada match on November 12 at Avaya Stadium. Did they both see the same game? Stay to the end of the show and find out!

The First Ever Women’s Football Yearbook 2017-18
Ever wish there was one book where you can find all your favorite player’s info and stats? Well here it is and we have the pleasure of talking to one of the editors. Chris Slegg talks about the journey to get this book published and why it’s important to the women’s game. And now here’s your chance to win a copy! Simply listen to the show to find out more.
In the UK? Order your copy today! (33:12)

Plus…
Recaps from FAWSL 1&2, W-League, & Fraun Bundesliga; News from the NWSL and New Zealand; And a quick overview of the NCAA Div 1 Women’s Soccer Championships.

Original Broadcast Date: November 12, 2017

Photos courtesy of: Canada Soccer; U.S. Soccer; Sofia Huerta

Women’s World Football Show website design and theme music by Patricia La Bella

Women’s World Football Show® is a registered trademark and it’s audio and logo cannot be used without expressed written authorization.