The US women’s national team (USWNT) has always faced immense pressure to excel in every major tournament they participate in. Anything less than winning the trophy at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup would be considered a failure. However, managing stress is not only crucial for the players but also for the coaches. As the team prepares for an extended stay in New Zealand and Australia, it becomes essential to prioritize both mental and physical well-being.
The USWNT’s schedule is filled with various team activities such as training, meetings, and video analysis. While the players are fully aware that they are not on vacation, they are determined to give their best during the tournament. Although they may not have much free time, the team has managed to structure their schedule to include moments of downtime. However, the definition of downtime can vary from player to player, depending on their individual needs and preferences.
Recovery for Mind and Body
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 aid the players physically but also provide an opportunity for social interaction during their downtime. Even when they rest or take a mental break, their focus is always on improving their performance on the field.
For defender Crystal Dunn, the concept of free time has drastically changed since becoming a mother in May 2022. Taking care of her son, Marcel, has become her top priority. Balancing the responsibilities of motherhood with her commitment to the team requires making difficult choices. Sometimes, Dunn has to prioritize treatments over spending time with her family. Nevertheless, she has learned to accept the necessary balance and trust others to care for her child when needed.
To further relax and unwind, the players often gather in the team’s lounge area. One humorous anecdote comes from forward Lynn Williams, who reveals that Dunn frequently visits her room seeking company early in the morning. This relaxed environment allows the players to bond and enjoy each other’s company, which in turn fosters 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. Additionally, coffee breaks and book discussions serve as additional outlets for socializing and diverting attention from the pressures of the tournament.
Sophia Smith has taken the initiative to start an unofficial book club within the team. While the players may not all 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 prefers a more traditional form of entertainment by indulging in physical puzzles, specifically 500-piece jigsaw puzzles. Engaging in such activities, though seemingly simple, allows her to relax and pass the time in short intervals. These moments of relaxation are crucial in maintaining a healthy balance for the USWNT.
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 at their best on the field. Managing stress is not only beneficial for their mental and physical well-being but also contributes to the overall success of the team.
The USWNT understands the immense pressure they face and the stakes of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. However, they recognize the importance of managing stress and prioritizing their mental and physical well-being. Through various activities, such as cryotherapy, downtime in the team lounge, book discussions, gaming, and puzzles, the players find ways to relax and unwind. By finding this balance, the team can foster unity, maintain focus, and perform at their best in the tournament.
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