Bad Soccer Dad

Jess McDonald plays for the North Carolina Courage of the National Women's Soccer League and is a member of the United States Women's National Soccer Team. She won an NCAA title with the North Carolina Tar Heels, 2 NWSL titles with the North Carolina Courage, and the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Jess was gracious enough to host my daughter Naomi and I for this interview at the North Carolina Courage training facility. A few days before we recorded this, my wife Kelly and Naomi saw the Jess and USWMNT play the Korea Republic team in Chicago. This game on October 6, was the farewell game for Jill Elliss, who coached the US team for five years. I started recording just after Naomi told Jess she was at that game.   Reflection: Jess’ grandmother is a source of constant encouragement to her. Who is a steady voice of encouragement to you?   Jess challenges us to use our words carefully, because kids are always listening. What kind of words and phrases do you want your kids to remember you saying?   Jess says, “The g