Catching Up With Amy Rodriguez

Earlier this week, I had an opportunity to quickly chat with current US and Philadelphia Independence striker Amy Rodriguez about soccer and her role at this summers Women’s World Cup in Germany. Currently one of the most prolific goalscorers in US soccer (backed up by the equalizer she scored in the WPS final), 24-year old Rodriguez already has amassed a pretty amazing 70 international caps and 17 goals! We also talked about her involvement in Project Pink, an initiative to raise Breast Cancer awareness (something us guys are less likely to worry about – but something that will no doubt affect some of our family members.) Here is how the conversation went down.

Amy, first off congrats on a great season, both with the Independence and National team.
Thank you, it was definitely an important and exciting year for Women’s soccer!

What boots are you currently wearing?
I am currently wearing the PUMA v1.11s in the Vaporous Gray/Fluo Green colorway. I love playing in V1.11 because they are comfortable and lightweight.

What is the most important thing you look for in a pair of boots?
It is so important that a cleat is comfortable and forms to your foot quickly. When I try on cleats for the first time, I make sure they fit my foot well so I am able to get the best touch on the ball possible.

Growing up, what footwear did you wear?
I’ve tried all brands of cleats. I’ve worn PUMA cleats for the last 4 years and I have loved them.

You played a big role at the 2011 World Cup, how were the playing surfaces and did you have to change what you were wearing to suit playing conditions?
The surfaces at the World Cup were fast and slick. It was important for me to wear cleats with the best grip possible in order to maintain a good touch on the ball.

After the disappointment of the WC final, what was the process like of integrating back into the WPS season?
I flew directly to Philadelphia following the WWC. I was so excited to be back with my team that I only took a couple days off and then started training with them again. It was a little difficult when I first came back because I had to adjust to my new teammates and develop a chemistry on the field with them.

You are quickly gaining a reputation as a goal scorer at the very top level, what are you currently working on to improve or fine tune your game?
I practice my finishing all the time. It is so important that I do repetition when it comes to finishing because I want all types of shooting to become natural for me.

Project Pink has gained huge traction over the past two seasons, what role have you played in the initiative?
Project Pink is a great campaign to try to get breast cancer awareness out to women and girls. I have been honored to speak to young soccer players about Project Pink and continue to get the word out on breast cancer awareness. My hope is that we can raise as much money as possible for this year’s winning charity.

Thanks for taking the time to chat, Amy, and enjoy some rest in the offseason!
I will, and if anyone is interested, supporters are still tweeting #projectpink up a storm. There are a couple more weeks left to nominate your favorite charity, and voting opens at the end of the month.