Emily Sonnett, Defender – Post-Training Press Conference • 3-7-23
Defender Emily Sonnett
On what it’s like being back in the Pacific Northwest:
“I think when I initially got traded, coming back to the Pacific Northwest, I loved it over in Portland, so West Coast time, trying to get back to that. But no, it’s been good. I’m excited to be here.
On playing for head coach Laura Harvey and the coaching staff at OL Reign:
“I’ve had Laura for a short stint leading up to the Olympics. I thought she was great. I only hear really good things about her at the club level. Obviously knowing (midfielder) Rose (Lavelle), Pinoe and kind of saying a few things to me here and there, but I think that’s definitely an attraction coming to OL. I think Laura puts together good game plans. The trainings are really good and really intense.”
On the team culture at OL Reign:
“It seems strong. They’re all so very welcoming. I think, it’s something – obviously playing for Portland four years and having that rivalry, so they’re obviously very intense and they want to win. But the inclusion of how the group has accepted me, obviously knowing a few people, but getting to know the rest of the girls has been really pleasant.”
On being able to play multiple positions:
“Yeah, once I’ve grown in [eight years] and with the national team, it’s how I’m able to be so coachable. I think this team and the national team, both groups are very talented so to be able to have that versatility, I think, can work in my favor if we’re playing a certain way on a certain day. With anything, it’s just being coachable or if the coach sees fit for that training or that game.”
On what it’s like to be in the FIFA 23 video game:
“I actually was already in FIFA with the national team. But I think it’s a really cool addition. I think a lot of the girls are obviously excited. I don’t play that often, but if I do, I’m playing on [Nintendo] Switch. But yeah, I think it’s really cool seeing the NWSL jerseys and everyone posting them. So, I know that’s exciting.”
On going back to Portland for the preseason tournament:
“I love the city, it’s great food – I’ll hit my same coffee spots that I’ve missed, but I obviously have been a part of that tournament. That tournament is really good. I think it’s the (United States U-23 Women’s National Team) 23s, Louisville, us and Portland, right? I think it’s going to be great games leading up to the season.”
On if she has a message for the younger athletes:
“I think, to me, I always say this and I learned later in my career, purposeful practice – taking feedback and actually applying it to what you practice. So, if it’s crossing, what kind of cross, be very purposeful with it, that’s only going to translate to what you do on the field.”
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