Since that history-making milestone, much has changed for Ertz, both insoccerand in her personal life.
She changed positions on the field from central defense to defensive midfield.
I love coming together to score a goalas basic as that is, I love every aspect of it.
Stephen Lew/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Ertz also plays for pro womens team the Chicago Red Stars.
At the same time, her workouts with the USWNT will ramp up even moreboth in intensity and duration.
Zach also provides important emotional support.
Meg Oliphant / Getty Images
Ertz also handles the intensity of training by putting things in perspective.
As mentioned, Ertz really,reallyloves soccer.
But she knows its not a forever job.
Bob Kupbens/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
I really think that every time I go into the training room, says Ertz.
This mindset isnt always automatic, though.
She’ll listen to it before workouts and big games.
David Crotty / Getty Images
To stay energized through all that training, Ertz eats often throughout the day.
She typically keeps breakfast light (think: smoothies oroatmeal) so she’s not too full duringmorning workouts.
From there, shell snack throughout the day.
Essentially, whatever we have in the house, well throw in, says Ertz.
I enjoy going to the farmers market as well and having whats available there, she adds.
During especially big games, she relies on her support system to keep her nerves in check.
The spotlight of big-name matches like the World Cup and theOlympicscan be incredibly intense.
The pressure must be nerve-wracking, right?
Beyond that, she takes comfort in knowing just how hard shes worked for that moment.
The more prepared you feel, the less nervous you are, she says.
I know its not a numerical [goal], but I think thats really important in the tournament.
