The BIG LIFE

Michigan State's Awesome Journey to the Top of Women's Soccer! And How to Navigate Team Dynamics

Michigan State's women's soccer team is now ranked number one in the country, which Sam and Jordyn, especially Jordyn could not be happier about! They marvel on the remarkable transformation of the program over the years, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of past and present team members. 

This episode Sam and Jordyn also take a deep dive into the complexities of team dynamics and personalities. Explore how different paths and motivations drive players towards a common goal, and the impact of understanding these differences on team success. The hosts share personal experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of embracing diverse personalities to foster deeper connections and enhance team performance.

And of course, the latest updates from the world of college soccer, including key matchups and the implications for conference standings as the season progresses. 

Thanks for tuning in!

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. 

TheBIG LIFE is a Girls Soccer Network podcast. 

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

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Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

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NCAA Women's Soccer in Full Swing; Big Ten Surprises, and the Realities of Soccer Burnout

Welcome back to the Big Life Podcast!

Sam and Jordyn kick things off with a message from our sponsor, IDA Sports. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, IDA Sports has partnered with the Know Your Lemons Foundation to release a special edition and super sleek pink cleats! These cleats are not just rad; $10 from each pair sold goes to breast cancer education and early detection initiatives! Get yours with 15% off here:

Transitioning into the weekend's highlights, Jordyn shares her excitement over Michigan State's undefeated streak and their impressive rise to the number three spot in the nation. She also celebrates her first goal of the season and reflects on the personal significance of the win against Penn State.

Meanwhile, Sam reveals her recent nose injury, marking her fifth broken nose, and the humorous yet frustrating consequences it has on her daily life and team dynamics. Despite the setback, Sam remains optimistic and focused on her professional journey in Sweden.
The duo also discusses the latest developments in the Big Ten Conference, including the surprising struggles of Nebraska and the impressive performances of newcomers UCLA and USC. They delve into the challenges of long away streaks and the impact of key players like Minnesota's Kaya Harper, who is currently one of the top goal-scorers in the nation.

On a serious note, Sam and Jordyn address the topic of burnout, a common issue faced by athletes at all levels. They share their personal experiences and strategies for managing burnout, emphasizing the importance of finding balance, reconnecting with the love of the game, and having a support system outside of soccer.

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.
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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. 

 

Donate to the Big Life to help us to produce this kickoff season and receive a brand new Big Life sticker https://donorbox.org/the-big-life

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

TheBIG 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

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 🎧

 

Unlock 15% off IDA 👟 footwear here:

https://www.idasports.com/pages/girlssoccernetwork

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