By OkayGoal 
While the players of the USWNT inspire us every time they step on the pitch, they also have a lot of wise words to share with us all. Here are some of the best things they’ve said this year, about everything from finding the bright side of a bad situation to being a good winner.
Tobin Heath
“I never played to be famous or for people to care about me, I just played because I loved it.” -Tobin Heath, on her retirement
Emma Hayes
“But when I think about individual honors, I always think about teams and players. So, as I step into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame, I do so with all the players and staff I’ve worked with over my career, and I’m sincerely appreciative of all of them.”
-Emma Hayes, on her nomination to the Soccer Hall of Fame Museum
Naomi Girma
“I try to be in the moment and not think of the weight of what’s happening. I mean, there’s still nerves—there will be nerves forever—but there’s more excitement.” -Naomi Girma on high-stakes matches
Rose Lavelle
“I think I’ve found a lot of silver lining during this time away. I think [some] of that is learning how to be a good teammate when I can’t be on the field with them, staying present, still having a voice and helping people where I can. Being out for so long really forced me to do that 10-fold.” -Rose Lavelle, on seeing the bright side
Sam Coffey
“I am the best version of myself as a leader when I’m able to pour into the people around me… and help serve them in whatever way I possibly can and be the best teammate I can be.” -Sam Coffey, on her leadership style
Michelle Cooper
“But it’s not about the number of opportunities, it’s about how efficient we can be with them, and I think we showed that tonight.” -Michelle Cooper, after her record breaking goal for Current and the tenacity it takes to come from behind.
image via Getty Images
_
GIRLS SOCCER NETWORK: YOUR SOURCE FOR GIRLS SOCCER NEWS