the BIG LIFE

Top Rankings, Surprising Wins, and NCAA Changes All in Women's Soccer!

Welcome back to "The Big Life Podcast"! This episode is chock-full of nerdy yet seriously interesting information about the college game. In this episode, Jordyn and Sam dive into Michigan State's incredible rise to the number one spot in the RPI rankings. What is RPI? You must tune in to learn more about this rating system used in NCAA sports!

Rick Allen, owner of The Informed Athlete, joins us to shed light on the current NCAA landscape, the House Settlement, and its potential impact on college athletics. We explore how changes in scholarship rules, roster sizes, and the transfer portal are shaping the future of college sports.

And you won't want to miss our discussion on the proposed NCAA rule changes, including the four-game rule and allowing athletes to have agents while maintaining their college eligibility. Plus, we speculate on the future of NIL deals and how universities might adapt to new financial challenges.

Join us for an informative and exciting episode as we navigate the evolving world of college athletics!

Thank you to our sponsor, IDA Sports. IDA Sports shares GSN's commitment to empowering women in soccer by providing them with the specialized gear they deserve. The company's cleats are designed to address the unique needs and preferences of female athletes, aligning perfectly with the mission of "The BIG LIFE" podcast. 

 

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TheBIG LIFE is a Girls Soccer Network podcast. 

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From College Fields to Professional Pitches: The Journey of a Soccer Player!

Welcome back to the Big Life Podcast!

Transitioning from college soccer to the professional level is a dream for many female soccer players, but the journey is filled with challenges, pressures, and unexpected twists. In this week's episode of the Big Life podcast, Sam and Jordyn dive head first into this topic as two athletes who are currently navigating these waters.

Sam shares her personal journey from college soccer at Iowa to playing professionally in Sweden. The shift from being a top player in college to starting anew in a professional setting comes with its own set of pressures. "Winning or losing is quite literally for me, it's my job, it's my livelihood, it's my community, it's my contract and so much," she explains. This statement encapsulates the heightened stakes that come with professional sports, where every game can impact a player's career and future.

Meanwhile, Jordyn gears up for the Big Ten Conference kickoff, discussing her team's preparations and the challenges of their first away trip of the season. The duo also recaps the latest results and highlights key upcoming matches in the Big Ten, including intriguing match-ups involving new West Coast additions UCLA and USC.

The episode also touches on the differences in funding and facilities between college and professional soccer. While college programs in the U.S. often have extensive resources, professional teams, especially in Europe, focus more on the essentials for football. This shift can be jarring for players who are used to the "flashiness" of college sports.

Thank you to our sponsor, IDA Sports. IDA Sports shares GSN's commitment to empowering women in soccer by providing them with the specialized gear they deserve. The company's cleats are designed to address the unique needs and preferences of female athletes, aligning perfectly with the mission of "The BIG LIFE" podcast. 

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen. 

The BIG LIFE is a Girls Soccer Network podcast. 

Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137

UCLA's Head Coach Margueritte Aozasa Talks Big Ten Transition, Roster Challenges, and Coaching Youth

In this episode of The Big Life, we are thrilled to welcome Margueritte Aozasa, the head women's soccer coach at UCLA. She shares her insights on joining the Big Ten Conference, the challenges of dealing with injuries, and, of course, adapting to the Midwest's weather!

We also discuss the latest Big Ten soccer updates, including Michigan State's recent performances and the impact of the U-20 World Cup on team rosters. Plus, we highlight Penn State's Kaitlyn MacBean's outstanding weekend performance.

Don't miss Margueritte's thoughts on the future of recruiting with the new roster cap and the end of the NWSL draft. Tune in to hear about UCLA's "revenge tour" and their quest for the treble this season!

As always, follow Girl Soccer Network on Instagram, stay updated with Sam and Jordyn's journeys on social media, and reach out to us with any questions. 

Thank you to our sponsor, IDA Sports. IDA Sports shares GSN's commitment to empowering women in soccer by providing them with the specialized gear they deserve. The company's cleats are designed to address the unique needs and preferences of female athletes, aligning perfectly with the mission of "The BIG LIFE" podcast. 

 

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen. 

Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 
Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137

NWSL Dumps the Draft; Changes and Navigating the Future of Women's Soccer and an Emotional Senior Night for Jordyn

Welcome back to The Big Life! This episode dives into the rollercoaster of emotions experienced on senior night, as Jordyn reflects on the bittersweet moments and unexpected feelings that came with it. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of being a college athlete, the impact of roster decisions, and the changing landscape of college soccer.

We also discuss major news in women's soccer, including the NWSL's groundbreaking decision to eliminate the college draft. What does this mean for future players, and how will it reshape the path to professional soccer? Listen in as we analyze the potential impacts, from college athletes' decisions to turn pro to the future structure of women's soccer leagues.

Plus, get the latest updates on Michigan State's upcoming games and exciting matches in the Swedish Domos Vonsken league. Whether you're a college soccer enthusiast or curious about the evolving world of women's sports, this episode is packed with insights and stories you won't want to miss!

Remember to tune into Big Ten Plus, ESPN Plus, and other streaming networks for live college soccer action. Thanks for listening, and stay tuned for more from The Big Life!

 

We want to thank IDA Sports for supporting our mission to bring you great women's soccer content! Get 15% off you IDA's right here! https://www.idasports.com/pages/girlssoccernetwork

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen. 

Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 
Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137

Is DI or DII Better? Let's Ask Mackenzie Jones, Who's Played Both! Plus the Big Ten Conf is Booming!

Welcome back to "The Big Life!" In this episode, Jordyn and Sam celebrate Michigan State's historic win against Notre Dame and look forward to their upcoming match against Arkansas. Jordyn shares the intense emotions of the game and the experience of watching from the sidelines due to injury.

The episode transitions into a comprehensive recap of Big Ten women's soccer, highlighting major moments like Iowa's controversial match against Oregon State and Nebraska's surprising loss to Oklahoma State. Jordan and the host delve into the implications of these games and the different dynamics at play.

In a special segment, the episode features an interview with Mackenzie Jones, who transferred from Grand Valley State University to Purdue University for her fifth year. Mackenzie shares her journey, the challenges of the transfer portal, and the differences between Division II and Big Ten soccer.

Additionally, the episode covers exciting international women's soccer news, including the crossover games between the Women's Super League and the NWSL, as well as the kickoff of the USL Super League.

Tune in for a blend of personal stories, in-depth analysis, and heartfelt moments that capture the essence of living "The Big Life."

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen. 

 

Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 
Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137

The Big Life: Unveiling the USL Super League

Welcome back to The Big Life! In this episode, Sam and Jordyn explore the brand-new USL Super League, a new professional league for women. Join us as we dive into the league's inaugural season, and what this means for players who want to continue their careers. 

We had the privilege of speaking with two talented players from different teams: Sheyenne Allen from Fort Lauderdale and Jenny Vetter from Spokane, Washington. They share their personal journeys, experiences, and what makes the USL Super League special. Learn how this league aims to elevate women's soccer by providing more avenues for players to continue their professional careers on home soil.

Discover the excitement surrounding the league's kickoff, the competitive spirit of the teams, and how you can catch all the action on Peacock. Whether you're a dedicated fan or new to women's soccer, this episode is packed with insights and enthusiasm for the future of the sport.

Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation and get ready to support the USL Super League as it makes its mark in the world of professional women's soccer!

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen 🎧

 

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Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137

Kicking Off Season Three: Soccer Preseasons, Olympic Dramas, and Pro Soccer Adventures

Welcome back to Big Life, listeners! We're as excited for the upcoming soccer season as you are. Season three kicks off with a fun game of "Two Truths and a Lie" and some exclusive offers from our sponsor, Ida Sports. Make sure to grab your new cleats with our special discount!

In this episode, Jordan and Sam catch up on their summer adventures and dive deep into the current state of college athletics. Jordan shares her rollercoaster experience rehabbing a PCL injury and discusses the emotional and physical challenges of returning for her final season at Michigan State. They also tackle the complexities of new NCAA rules and how they'll affect future seasons.

The conversation shifts to the Olympics, where Sam provides insights into the drama surrounding the Canadian women's soccer team and the performance of Team USA. With exclusive updates from her pro soccer journey in Sweden, Sam reveals her recent travels, fitness regimen, and exciting news about her contract extension.

Join us for an episode packed with updates, insights, and a sneak peek into what’s coming next. Whether you're a college athlete, a pro soccer fan, or just love the game, there's something for everyone in this season opener!

Checkout IDA here and get 15% off https://www.idasports.com/pages/girlssoccernetwork

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen!

 

Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 
Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137

Wrapping Up Season 2 with Andrea Brimmer: The Evolution of Women's Sports and Ally's 50/50 Pledge

Hey socceristas and welcome back to The BIG LIFE Podcast! It's the last episode of Season 2 and we feel like we're ending it with a real bang with a very special guest! This season has been a whirlwind for Sam and Jordyn as they adjust to being on different continents while sharing their lives and experiences. They will be back in late July with more exciting content, covering women's college soccer inside and out with a focus, of course, on the Big Ten.

For our finale episode, we're thrilled to bring you an incredible interview with Andrea Brimmer, Chief Marketing and PR Officer at Ally Financial, who is a fellow Spartan, like our Jordyn! This is such a great episode with a super smart and passionate leader in the women's soccer space! Andrea shares her inspiring journey from Michigan State's first women's varsity soccer team to leading the charge in the growth of women's sports. Andrea discusses Ally's 50-50 media equity pledge and the significant strides they've made to support women's sports.

Andrea's story is also motivational in framing the importance of media coverage and investment in women's sports. She offers invaluable advice for athletes transitioning into professional careers. This powerful conversation wraps up Season 2 on a high note!

As always, follow Girl Soccer Network on Instagram, stay updated with Sam and Jordyn's journeys on social media, and reach out to us with any questions. We'll see you in late July to kick off the women's college soccer season! Have a great summer!

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen. 

Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 
Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137