http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/ en brandi@brandisworld.com Copyright 2011 2011-12-25T16:33:54-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/holiday-cheer/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/holiday-cheer/#When:16:33:54Z Hello Friends, It is a bit late to be writing, but I had to send you a note.  It is easy to be happy and hopeful at this time of the year, but I really have to say that I just love the SPIRIT of the holidays.  The Season of giving and reflecting is a reminder of how important it is to be good, do good and inspire good and not just during December, but ALL YEAR.  When I was training with the national team, whether in an Olympic or World Cup year or in between, setting goals was… Soccer 2011-12-25T16:33:54-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/thoughts-after-the-ncaa-womens-soccer-championship/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/thoughts-after-the-ncaa-womens-soccer-championship/#When:15:04:33Z Since I am an ambassador for The Capital One Cup, it is my responsibility to go to the women’s soccer championship weekend.  As you all know, I am a Santa Clara University volunteer assistant and FAN.  So I thought it would be hard to see other teams there vying for the title (and on some level it was) but my jealousy, envy and personal disappointment turned into butterflies and excitement after going to the NCAA team banquet the evening before the first kickoff to share my thoughts, best wishing, and encouragement to all the participants.  Having been to three… Soccer 2011-12-05T15:04:33-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/remember-to-breathe/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/remember-to-breathe/#When:02:00:24Z It has been a while since we have talked.  I hope you are all doing well and enjoying as beautiful a late summer, early fall as we are having in California.  Lots of things have been happening and I feel like I haven’t been able to get off the treadmill of life to stop, find time and ReachuP! (and out) to you.  But, since kindergarten and Santa Clara University women’s soccer have all settled down, I don’t have the flu (knocking on wood right now and encouraging you to get your vaccine to keep it that way) and I am… Soccer 2011-10-25T02:00:24-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/dr.-colleen-m.-hacker-joins-our-medical-advisory-board/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/dr.-colleen-m.-hacker-joins-our-medical-advisory-board/#When:18:58:31Z                   Hi Friends, We are pleased to announce that Dr. Colleen Hacker has agreed to join our medical advisory board on Brandisworld! Brandi and Dr. Hacker first met when she worked with the U.S. Women’s National Team as a Mental Skill Coach. Brandi credits Dr. Hacker with much of her own mental strength on the field and in life. Dr. Colleen Hacker has served as a member of the United States coaching staff for four Olympic Games as a Mental Skill Coach and Performance Enhancement Specialist. Dr.… Soccer 2011-07-24T18:58:31-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/my-thoughts-beforw-the-usa-japan-world-cup-final/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/my-thoughts-beforw-the-usa-japan-world-cup-final/#When:14:19:10Z Hours are counting down til kick-off and I am sitting next to my friend, teammate and lead game analyst Julie Foudy.  We have been batting back and forth ideas of what could happen, what will happen and how the game will be concluded.  It is fun, and I say that not to take this lightly, but to explain how much I love this game and the people involved.  We love to be here, to see the plots unfold and feel the tension ratchet up exponentially as we get closer and closer to the biggest game of the last… Soccer 2011-07-17T14:19:10-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/july-10-will-be-us-womens-soccer-history-day/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/july-10-will-be-us-womens-soccer-history-day/#When:01:46:27Z July 10 will go down in history as US Women’s Soccer History Day.  It was 12 years ago today the my teammates and I put US Soccer in the history books with a PK victory over China with 90,000+ fans watching in the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA.  Fast forward to today and you see the same crest on the proud chests of our country’s best, taking on the undisputed best player in the world, Marta, and her dynamic team, Brazil.  The first two goals scored were blunders, gaffs, errors of the largest proportion.  An own goal and a pk… Soccer 2011-07-11T01:46:27-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/should-abby-wambach-play-with-achilles-tendonitis/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/should-abby-wambach-play-with-achilles-tendonitis/#When:23:12:38Z           Well, in interest of full disclosure, I should tell you that I’m not going to answer that question. Listening to all of the commentary (including Brandi’s) surrounding the WWC made me think about a broader question. When should a player be allowed to play with an injury? Who actually makes the decision?     Let me first state that pain is the body’s way of telling us there is a problem.  While no one likes to experience pain, it serves a useful purpose. People who are either born without the ability to… Soccer 2011-07-09T23:12:38-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/opening-day-of-the-world-cup-in-germany/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/opening-day-of-the-world-cup-in-germany/#When:14:06:15Z Mia, Jules and I catching up after the opening game of the World Cup in Berlin.  We laughed and laughed and laughed about some of the best times (and potentially the most embarrassing) moments of our times off the field together.  It is amazing how those stories never get old. And it never gets old talking about the the laughs, but it’s time to turn it to the soccer. The Women’s World Cup kicked off yesterday with Nigeria vs France, ending in a 1-0 victory for France.  Not as great of a result as they would have liked, because… Soccer 2011-06-27T14:06:15-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/can-the-worlds-best-defenders-stop-the-worlds-best-attackers-read-the-new-b/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/can-the-worlds-best-defenders-stop-the-worlds-best-attackers-read-the-new-b/#When:04:17:46Z The flights from San Francisco to Philly, and then onto Frankfurt were uneventful (this is a great thing).  I did meet Mike, who is a proud father of two boys who play football.  He is a doctor of radiology and he indulged me in my interest in the human physiology.  I asked countless questions about MRI’s (I have had my fair share) and how they have advanced since the time I had my first ACL injury.  I read his medical journals, some of the words were clearly not in my vocabulary, so I had to ask what they were, but… Soccer 2011-06-22T04:17:46-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/bring-your-competitive-spirit-to-everything-you-do/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/bring-your-competitive-spirit-to-everything-you-do/#When:00:14:38Z I am just back from Michael Jordan’s golf tournament at one of the most spectacular golf courses in the country, with some of the best athletes the world has ever seen. WOW!  I will admit that I haven’t played all the courses the country has to offer, but having played enough great ones to know that Shadow Creek in Las Vegas is TIGHT (and I mean that both as being awesome and not a lot of room to put your ball for it to be a great shot, hahahaha).  And teeing it up next to some of the best athletes… Soccer 2011-04-06T00:14:38-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/be-passionate-and-use-every-minute-possible-to-make-that-passion-work-for-t/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/be-passionate-and-use-every-minute-possible-to-make-that-passion-work-for-t/#When:06:27:32Z I have had a couple of days to reflect on the last week with the 200 or more girls at ODP InterRegional camp for the ‘94’s, ‘95’s and ‘96’s in Pomona.  I had the chance to meet so many great people, not to mention some players with great potential.  It was a real treat to sit down with all the regions and talk about soccer, stress, pressure,  fun, sacrifice,  and even the Jersey Shore(I still haven’t seen an episode but maybe I will one of these days since… Soccer 2011-03-03T06:27:32-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/its-already-been-a-great-year/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/its-already-been-a-great-year/#When:05:38:00Z Yes, it is only mid-January, but it has already been a great year. We began the year with a birthday party for my husband, Jerry. We made a commitment to physical fitness and therefore, happiness! I then traveled to the Home Depot Center, for a 9 day USSF “A” coaching school. That led to 9 glorious days of teamwork, laughter, learning new friends, and sore muscles. I managed to fit in some quality time with my good friend and teammate Mia (Hamm), while playing with her daughters. I knew I liked bubbles, but it reminded me that they are really… Soccer 2011-01-20T05:38:00-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/christmas-eve/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/christmas-eve/#When:02:28:52Z Tonight is the first Christmas Eve that my young son has engaged in and most likely will remember, and his pure excitement over Santa Claus has been marvelous to watch.  He isn’t really interested in presents, though one Bakugan would be nice he says, it is his outright joy of of the season, singing carols in Spanish (Gloria by his Maestra Suzy is his favorite), going to the lot to pick a tree out together as a family, climbing on top of his daddy’s shoulders to put the angel on the very tippy top, seeing the lights turned on for… Personal 2010-12-26T02:28:52-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/if-you-see-it....-you-can-do-it/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/if-you-see-it....-you-can-do-it/#When:02:59:55Z I’m very happy to have gone to the Women’s college cup, but VERY happy to be home because I certainly didn’t have the right clothing for that sort of weather. Thanks to all the soccer players that came to the Capital One Cup fan fest on Friday to shoot some pk’s, the accuracy challenge and race the clock in the obstacle course. Good times! It was an unexpected ending in the final, which is one of the reasons sport is so exciting! The game winning goal was scored by Notre Dame freshman Adriana Leon. We love the quote… Soccer 2010-12-06T02:59:55-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/learn-how-to-lose/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/learn-how-to-lose/#When:17:32:37Z Let me state this for the record….I DO NOT LIKE TO LOSE. I do everything I know possible to win; ie, training, watching video, visualizing, communicating, more training, focusing on the details, you name it.  Even those things are not going to guarantee me success, victory or happiness.  SO what is the big deal, then?  Why are we hung up on it?  Is it personal embarrassment?  No face time on SportsCenter?  Your friends having one up on you? No scholarship?  No endorsement?  WHAT?  I am bringing this topic up because I was on the losing side recently, and after… Soccer 2010-11-20T17:32:37-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/thoughts-after-the-big-testimonial-celebration-game/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/thoughts-after-the-big-testimonial-celebration-game/#When:20:12:45Z Hello BrandisWorld Friends, I want to thank you for checking back in with me.  I am sorry that I have been absent lately, but a lot has been going on. Here is a recap…     It has been a crazy last month, with the big Testimonial Celebration game at SCU’s Buck Shaw Stadium on October 2.  Friends, celebrities and celebrity soccer players joined me on the field for one last AWESOME game, and it was magical. For those of you who had the chance to join us at the stadium, THANK YOU!  We knew there would… Soccer 2010-10-11T20:12:45-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandis-blog-from-the-youth-olympic-games-in-singapore/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandis-blog-from-the-youth-olympic-games-in-singapore/#When:05:17:36Z Greetings from Singapore….. Have you ever gone to a place where your mental picture didn’t match the actual picture when you arrived? This is the experience I am having in Singapore.  I have been here now for two days, which is nearly as long as it took me to get here.  But, it has all been worth the travel.  I have learned so much about what Singapore is about, and who lives on the island of 326 kilometers.  For example, Singaporeans are made up of mostly Chinese, then Malaya, and Indians.  The official language is English, followed by either… Soccer 2010-08-28T05:17:36-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/have-you-ever-had-one-of-those-weeks/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/have-you-ever-had-one-of-those-weeks/#When:02:36:47Z Have you ever had one of those weeks where you are so excited about everything that’s coming up BUT exhausted just thinking about it? Whew that was my week.  I have decided that being super busy beats out being bored everytime.  AND, even though there is not much extra time, being busy allows me to get my workout in just doing normal errands, carry the boxes upon boxes of SCU women’s soccer gear to and from the office to my car and back, chases errant soccer #@%*! at the opening of double days, hustling to the plane for a filming… Soccer 2010-08-08T02:36:47-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/reflections/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/reflections/#When:07:35:33Z What’s happening ladies?  I am sure you have plenty of great stories to tell me what you have been doing, but until you can write to me, I will share what I have been up to. As you may know, I have been SO fortunate to have had a great career with the women’s national soccer team and been to three World Cups, as well as three Olympic Games, with the last coming at the home of the Olympics, Athens, Greece.  Each experience, beyond the medals, were amazing in their own way. The first one in Atlanta, Georgia in 1996,… Soccer 2010-07-19T07:35:33-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/amazing-wonderful-and-inspiring-people-gatorade-youth-athlete-of-the-year/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/amazing-wonderful-and-inspiring-people-gatorade-youth-athlete-of-the-year/#When:03:42:28Z It’s been a crazy few weeks, from the World Cup, working on the Testimonial game, filming Cameo Stars greetings(check those out soon, they were fun to film)to the Gatorade Youth Athlete of the Year.  The one thing that seems to be a constant is how amazing, wonderful and inspiring people are.  Everywhere I turn I am greeted with smiles, compliments and thoughtfulness.  Yesterday I met some athletes who are considered the next ones to watch (I got my eyes on you megan, cody, ashley, kasey) as well watched two young athletes receive a prestigious award with grace and excitement. The… Soccer 2010-07-16T03:42:28-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/thoughts-as-the-usa-exits-the-world-cup/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/thoughts-as-the-usa-exits-the-world-cup/#When:02:57:38Z Well, like I said, you can’t fall asleep because you will be taken advantage of. The World Cup is glorious, heartbreaking and uplifting. I feel deeply for the US Team, I empathize with you. For Ghana, you carried the weight of Africa on your shoulders and you held strong. Thank you both teams for giving us all a game could offer. Soccer 2010-06-27T02:57:38-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/check-out-brandis-new-fan-page/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/check-out-brandis-new-fan-page/#When:03:48:51Z Brandi Chastain likes Soccer 2010-06-26T03:48:51-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/you-gotta-love-those-road-trips/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/you-gotta-love-those-road-trips/#When:22:58:34Z On this holiday weekend, Brandi and I were reminiscing about how much we enjoyed taking road trips with our parents when we were young girls. This was before cars became traveling entertainment centers! There were no cell phones, either. We were left to invent our own fun (you know many of the usual games, i.e. I Spy, spotting license plates from different states, etc.). The best times were when there was no “absolute” schedule that we had to adhere to. I recently took a road trip, just my oldest son and myself. We stopped at a Dairy Queen, marveled at… Soccer 2010-05-31T22:58:34-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/how-to/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/how-to/#When:20:42:00Z Brandi and I have been knocking our heads together trying to find a way to best encourage kids to WANT to make healthy choices for themselves. We thought about our own lives.  One thing that we learned early on was that we were happiest when we were active. What activity made us happiest? PLAYING made us happiest. It almost didn’t matter what sport or activity we did. Many of you may think Brandi spent her entire childhood developing her soccer skills. Yes, she fell in love with soccer and spent a lot of time with her soccer ball. She… Soccer 2010-05-14T20:42:00-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/celebrate-kids-with-special-needs/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/celebrate-kids-with-special-needs/#When:17:12:53Z People need to understand that children with special needs don’t have an illness, so there is no cure & it’s not contagious. They only want what we all want, to be accepted. It’s Special Education week, and this is in honor of all the kids who need a little extra help & understanding 9 hours ago · Comment · Like Soccer 2010-04-29T17:12:53-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/celebrate-like-youre-an-olympic-champion/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/celebrate-like-youre-an-olympic-champion/#When:10:11:42Z I have been watching the Olympics so intently for three reasons.  One, I have worked with the USOC as an athlete ambassador, assisting all winter Olympians in their preparation to the Games and feel apart of their team.  Two, I love the red, white and blue.  Three, there is nothing more thrilling than to do or watch a celebration.  Whether it be big or little, seeing the joy, relief, satisfaction, and happiness on some ones face makes me feel like I could ski that treacherous mountain, do a triple axel, save the puck on a breakaway or nail a triple… Soccer 2010-02-23T10:11:42-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/my-awesome-day-at-the-olympic-training-center/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/my-awesome-day-at-the-olympic-training-center/#When:19:17:51Z Today was an AWESOME day.  I made my way last night to Colorado Springs, CO to the Olympic Training Center.  It’s been about 20 plus years since I have been to the center where I had my first taste of the Olympic spirit.  The place has changed but the memories came flooding back to me as soon as I stepped out of the car.  There have been amazing changes to the facility physically but after working with Bonnie Blair speed skater(4 time Olympian, 5 gold medals and a silver), Jessica Mendoza softball (gold medalist) and the US women’s hockey team… Soccer 2010-01-29T19:17:51-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/happy-new-year/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/happy-new-year/#When:01:06:57Z Thanks to everyone for making Brandi’s World’s 2009 year exciting.  It was our first, and just the jumping off point, but we went some great places and met AWESOME people (and animals, remember the sunglass wearing pup in NYC?) 2010 promises to be even better, with YOU helping.  Brandi’s World is going to be a special place where girls and women encourage, share and celebrate the things we all do well.  Together we will make a difference in not only our own lives, but the lives of others.  I encourage you all to join forces with me, Doc Joan… Personal 2010-01-02T01:06:57-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/this-is-a-big-weekend/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/this-is-a-big-weekend/#When:00:54:17Z This is a BIG weekend for many soccer players around the country. The first and second rounds of the NCAA playoffs have begun. I love playing soccer, whether it be at training, with friends in the park,or a pick up game with my older son Cam and his buddies. However, there is great emotion and intensity when the playoffs come around. Wearing your school’s uniform, representing the student body and vying for a national championship is special. I’ve never raised that awesome prize, but going into the end stages of the tournament was a privilege. The toughest thing about the… Soccer 2009-11-15T00:54:17-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/glad-to-be-home/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/glad-to-be-home/#When:16:09:50Z Last week, I had the opportunity to share a very special evening at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City with some of the greatest female athletes of the past and present, for the Women’s Sports Foundation’s annual dinner.  It was an honor to be in the company of women like Billy Jean King, two-time Olympic medalist Jessica Mendoza (softball), Julie Foudy (my amazing US Soccer teammate), Angela Ruggiero (ice hockey), Emily Cook (aerial skiing, keep an eye out for her in the 2010 Winter Games she is definitely a superstar in the making) and all the brave and talented… Soccer 2009-10-27T16:09:50-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/our-east-coast-trip/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/our-east-coast-trip/#When:19:15:25Z Hello Friends, What a great week! Brandi and I just returned home from a whirlwind east coast trip. Last Saturday, we had a great day at the Allykatzz tween summit in Washingtom DC. Brandi was able to meet many girls. She was part of a panel showing girls how to explore “unorthodox” careers. Although she is a professional soccer player, she sees herself as a “playground expert.“ The best part of the day was clearly getting to meet many girls individually and play with them. Several of the girls tried to help Brandi master the hoola-hoop. At the… Soccer 2009-10-18T19:15:25-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/you-are-a-champion/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/you-are-a-champion/#When:07:30:59Z I have been home from Copenhagen for three days, and the decision of the IOC has been made to take the Olympics to South America for the first time, I have a feeling of deja vu. In 2000 when the US women’s soccer team lined up versus our greatest competitor Norway, we were confident. We had finally matched up to their winning record against us and were poised in front of the world to take home the grand prize, Olympic Gold.  In the beginning stages of the game, if the game were stopped and a census was taken on how… Soccer 2009-10-08T07:30:59-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/come-join-us-at-tween-summit-in-wash-dc-on-october-10/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/come-join-us-at-tween-summit-in-wash-dc-on-october-10/#When:22:53:32Z Brandi has been asked by Allykatzz to speak at their “Tween Summit” in Washington DC on Saturday,Oct. 10th. It is an all day event, created by our friends at Allykattz. The purpose is to give a voice to tween-aged girls. One of their sponsors has agreed to open up 20 additional spots, just for the Brandisworld community.There is no charge for the summit. So, if anyone lives near Washington, D.C., or wants to make a weekend adventure with their parents, we would love to meet you and say hi! Here’s how to apply…...… Soccer 2009-10-01T22:53:32-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandis-1st-blog-from-copenhagen-denmark/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandis-1st-blog-from-copenhagen-denmark/#When:22:29:55Z Hello Brandi’s World from Copenhagen.  The last two days have totally melded together.  Since the moment we took off from Chicago, it has been go go go.  I should be sleeping right now because I have a press conference in a matter of hours, but tonight’s dinner and party after was so energizing that I am buzzing.  I have made friends with Olympians, Business Execs, White House staffers and of course, Chicago 2016 organizing rock stars.  Tomorrow is a press conference, bike ride through the city, more press, and maybe some food.  = )  I had something really sad… Soccer 2009-10-01T22:29:55-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandi-travels-to-copenhagen-for-usoc-then-off-to-tween-summit-in-washingto/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandi-travels-to-copenhagen-for-usoc-then-off-to-tween-summit-in-washingto/#When:06:49:33Z Brandi leaves for Copenhagen, Denmark next week. She has been invited by the United States Olympic Committee to help win the US the bid for the Olympic games in Chicago in 2016. She will be traveling with a group of athletes, as well as Oprah, and our 1st Lady, Michelle Obama! I’m sure she will tell you all about the trip when she returns. Soon after she gets back, she has been asked by Allykatzz to speak at their “Tween Summit” in Washington DC on Saturday,Oct. 10th. It is an all day event, created by our friends at… Soccer 2009-09-26T06:49:33-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/chicago-trip-for-the-usoc-united-states-olympic-committee/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/chicago-trip-for-the-usoc-united-states-olympic-committee/#When:22:52:27Z Hello Brandi’s World, Last week was truly AWESOME. My buddy and colleague Dr. Matty Cook who is our partner in a great strength/conditioning/injury prevention dvd, always talks about days, things, events, as “this is in my top 5 or my top 10”.  Well, I am going to use his favorite saying.  Last week was definitely in my top 5 weeks of the year so far. I had a chance to take Jaden to Chicago where my brother and his family live.  Jaden loves airplanes, so he was thrilled.  The trip wasn’t only a fun family visit, but I had… Soccer 2009-09-19T22:52:27-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/special-blog-help-win-brandi-the-prestigious-jefferson-award-for-public-ser/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/special-blog-help-win-brandi-the-prestigious-jefferson-award-for-public-ser/#When:07:12:56Z Hi Friends, I received a notice today that Brandi has been nominated for the prestigious Jefferson Award for Public Service. She was nominated for all of her work helping young girls improve the quality of their lives. Four years ago she co-founded a non-profit called BAWSI (Bay Area Women’s Sports Initiative). Winning the award will grant BAWSI additional funds that they need to keep their programs going. Former winners include Oprah Winfrey, Bill and Melinda Gates, and Senator Ted Kennedy. I believe you have to be 13 years old in order to vote, so make sure your parents help. Soccer 2009-08-20T07:12:56-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/coach-brandi/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/coach-brandi/#When:07:00:49Z Well, the outcome of the game wasn’t what we would have liked against the Skyblue FC. Nevertheless, I was able to spend time with some awesome girls before the game. They made me their honorary assistant coach. Here are some some pictures that they sent. I’ll cherish the memories of watching Gemma and her teammates! Oh, and I also got to meet a really cute 4 year old whose parents named her Chastain. How cool is that? Soccer 2009-08-06T07:00:49-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/thought-for-the-day/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/thought-for-the-day/#When:07:56:51Z Thought for the day… Tonight may be one of the most important games of my life. The thought of it gets me excited, but at the same time pensive. Playing is FUN, and that will never change. But, at this stage and level, moving forward and making the playoffs is what it is all about. My team has struggled bravely and NOW is when it matters most. How do YOU make sense of tight situations? For me, I find that putting a smile on my face, slapping HighFives and doing small,simple things on the field first to gain confidence helps.… Soccer 2009-07-25T07:56:51-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/10-year-anniversary-a-whole-new-decade-to-come/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/10-year-anniversary-a-whole-new-decade-to-come/#When:05:52:55Z Everyone is so interested in what has happened the last 10 years,and I know why. The 1999 women’s world cup was an AMAZING event,seen by millions of people around the world. Tens of thousands of people joined together in non-traditional soccer stadiums to celebrate health, competition, patriotism (ours and others) and women’s soccer. I never could have dreamed up a better scenario on the play ground, and in fact I didn’t. I never saw myself playing soccer in the Olympic Games or World Cups. I saw myself hitting homers over my neighbors house in street baseball, running a down and… Soccer 2009-07-11T05:52:55-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/ch/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/ch/#When:03:57:15Z WOMEN’S SOCCER Chicago Red Stars to mark anniversary of 1999 Women’s World Cup   July 12, 2009 The Chicago Red Stars will mark the 10th anniversary of the 1999 Women’s World Cup, considered a transformational event in the history of women’s sports, during Sunday’s 7 p.m. match with FC Gold Pride at Toyota Park. Defender Brandi Chastain and goalie Briana Scurry, who played critical roles as Team USA beat China on penalty kicks in the July 10, 1999, final at a sold-out Rose Bowl, and teammate Tiffeny Milbrett will be honored during the match. Chastain, who plays for the… News 2009-07-11T03:57:15-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/meet-brandi-chastain-briana-scurry-as-red-stars-remember-99-this-sunday/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/meet-brandi-chastain-briana-scurry-as-red-stars-remember-99-this-sunday/#When:04:07:48Z Meet Brandi Chastain & Briana Scurry as Red Stars Remember ‘99 This Sunday July 6, 2009 - Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) Chicago Red Stars Chicago Red StarsBRIDGEVIEW, Ill. - Ten years ago this week the U.S. Women’s National Team captivated America by winning the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Sunday, the Chicago Red Stars invite fans to relive that historic moment as we Remember ‘99 at TOYOTA PARK! World Cup heroes Brandi Chastain, Tiffeny Milbrett and Briana Scurry will be on hand to celebrate the anniversary and interact with Red Stars fans throughout the July 12 game against FC… News 2009-07-07T04:07:48-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/superstars-premiers-tuesday-june-23rd-on-abc/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/superstars-premiers-tuesday-june-23rd-on-abc/#When:00:07:10Z I can’t believe that the kick off The Superstars is tomorrow, Tuesday June 23rd, on ABC 8pm pst.  It feels like so long ago that we all convened in the Bahamas to tape the show.  I am now laughing because I can’t believe that this summer is the 10 year anniversary of the 1999 Women’s World Cup and the penalty kick.  That doesn’t seem as far away as the taping of The Superstars for some reason. Both of the events were very special, both embedded in teamwork, some pain/injuries, being on the road, familiar and unfamiliar games (think Nigeria… Soccer 2009-06-23T00:07:10-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/jadens-birthday/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/jadens-birthday/#When:10:00:36Z Posted 9 days ago by Brandi Chastain It’s been so great getting back to my team and getting on with what it is I really do, which is playing soccer and winning a championship. I just love taking the field with the Gold Pride. I’m so happy to see so many fans coming out to support our team and the WPS. Today is actually a very special day for my family. My son, Jaden, is turning 3! Wow time flies! We’ll definitely be doing something fun to celebrate and have cake, because he LOVES cake. At the end… Soccer 2009-06-18T10:00:36-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/girls-get-an-invitation-into-brands-world/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/girls-get-an-invitation-into-brands-world/#When:23:44:14Z Girls get an invitation into ‘Brandi’s World’ By Marianne L. Hamilton Los Gatos Weekly-Times Posted: 07/02/2009 03:56:02 PM PDT Updated: 07/02/2009 03:56:02 PM PDT Brandi Chastain is on a mission. In three long-legged strides, she covers the distance to the chair next to the one in which Los Gatos podiatrist Dr. Joan Oloff is seated. Collapsing in a heap, Chastain kicks off her flip-flop, twists her foot backwards and parks it in Oloff’s lap. Then, laughing and pointing to one of many scrapes on her ankle, she says “Doctor, fix this, please,“ and plasters a wet kiss on… News 2009-06-02T23:44:14-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/another-big-game/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/another-big-game/#When:08:01:58Z When I started my soccer life, I had no idea how many trainings/games I would play.  In fact, not until recently did I ever think that there would be sort of a “finish line” to how many games I would play.  But instead of thinking of how many more, I have changed my mind set into, how well do I want to play the trainings/games I have left?  Because I have no idea how many more trainings/games/years I have left.  I don’t even know if I will ever start a game this season.  But it doesn’t matter because each experience… Soccer 2009-05-23T08:01:58-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brand/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brand/#When:22:51:38Z THE SUPERSTARS ABC reveals celebrity and athlete pairings for ‘The Superstars’ revival   By Christopher Rocchio, 04/22/2009 ABC has revealed the identities of the eight celebrity and athlete pairings competing on The Superstars,  its celebrity-themed revival of Superstars, an all-around sports competition that featured famous athletes competing in different sporting events to determine the best athlete in the world. ABC will premiere The Superstars, an all-around sports competition series that will feature the teams battling in various events on Tuesday, June 23 at 8PM ET/PT.  Superstars originally debuted as part of ABC’s Wide World of… Soccer 2009-05-15T22:51:38-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/why-i-keep-playing-...read-this-excerpt-from-an-article-in-usa-today-about-/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/why-i-keep-playing-...read-this-excerpt-from-an-article-in-usa-today-about-/#When:03:04:27Z “It’s the simple things,“ Chastain said. “I love the smell of the grass, or a really good moment on the field with a teammate. It’s about not having anything to prove, about enjoying every single moment.“ “Being on a soccer field makes me feel like I’m maybe not quite a teenager, but it puts me in that mindset,“ said Chastain, now almost a decade removed from her winning 1999 World Cup penalty kick and shirt-whipping celebration that made her the only person to ever land on the covers of Time, Newsweek, People and Sports Illustrated in the same week.… Soccer 2009-04-17T03:04:27-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/docs-blog-oh-what-a-day/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/docs-blog-oh-what-a-day/#When:03:36:14Z Ok, it was a special day, so I’ve decided it’s ok to make a special blog. I promise that Brandi will soon share her thoughts with you, but 1st, I’ll share mine. Yesterday was the very 1st game that Brandi’s new team, the FC Gold Pride played at Buck Shaw Stadium. I watched Brandi seize this opportunity with the grace of a champion, that we all know she is. We keep telling you ladies to challenge yourselves to reach up to your wildest dreams… to challenge yourselves to try something you didn’t know you could do. Yesterday, I… Soccer 2009-04-07T03:36:14-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/goal-of-new-soccer-team/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/goal-of-new-soccer-team/#When:05:32:24Z By Mark Emmons Mercury News Posted: 04/02/2009 10:10:45 PM PDT   U.S. Olympic Champion soccer players Brandi Chastain, practices with other… ( Maria Avila ) Because this is soccer, the word “goal” is thrown around quite a bit by the FC Gold Pride. But these players and coaches aren’t just talking about putting the ball in the back of the net. That’s only part of the mission for the Gold Pride, the Bay Area’s entry in the new seven-team Women’s Professional Soccer league. When the curtain goes up Sunday afternoon at Buck Shaw Stadium,… Soccer 2009-04-04T05:32:24-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandi-makes-opening-game-roster-for-fc-gold-pride/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandi-makes-opening-game-roster-for-fc-gold-pride/#When:06:15:24Z Chastain, Milbrett earn FC Gold Pride roster spots By Elliott Almond Mercury News Posted: 03/22/2009 05:38:16 PM PDT Brandi Chastain and Tiffeny Milbrett, two of the biggest names in their sport, have made the opening-day roster for FC Gold Pride in the inaugural season of the Women’s Professional Soccer league. Gold Pride Coach Albertin Montoya said Sunday that Chastain, 40, and Milbrett, 36, made the club after outperforming players 10 and 15 years younger. “When you see some of the younger players pulling out with soreness and injuries and you have Brandi still out there playing… Soccer 2009-03-27T06:15:24-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/my-first-game-back-part-3/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/my-first-game-back-part-3/#When:05:25:15Z The first 5 minutes were a bit spastic and awkward, but we soon settled into the game and then took over.  By the end of the first half it was 6-0 FC Gold Pride and we had scored some very entertaining and impressive goals.  I have never really played in the high midfield position, but I liked it.  I got to go forward, help on defense, see the ball a lot, score, and do my favorite thing, pass.  Not to mention add a few nutmegs, sombreros, back heels and 1-2 wall passes.  When the halftime whistle blew, I was thrilled. … Soccer 2009-03-17T05:25:15-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/my-first-game-back-part-2/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/my-first-game-back-part-2/#When:20:57:27Z It has been great getting to know all the players.  I have teammates from Japan ,California, Oregon, Alabama, New Mexico, Arizona, and other places. We have been tearing each other up during training because each and everyone of us is battling bravely to make the squad, but never forgetting we are a team.  That became apparent last night when we had our first scrimmage against someone other than ourselves.  Everyone loves to scrimmage at training because it is fun, but when you do it for 15 or 16 trainings in a row, you want to take it out on someone… Soccer 2009-03-15T20:57:27-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/my-first-game-back/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/my-first-game-back/#When:08:06:41Z This blog is the hardest thing I have had to write because I don’t think that I am quite capable of using the exact and necessary words to express the amazingly deep feelings I have about wearing my cleats again.  Soccer has always been a regular part of my life since I was a young girl, but since 2005, it has seemed a distant passion.  It’s not to say that I haven’t been doing something that I love, but not being on the field was life altering.  I missed it like crazy.  But my hole of deep sadness has been… Soccer 2009-03-14T08:06:41-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandi-reflects-upon-her-return-to-pro-soccer/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandi-reflects-upon-her-return-to-pro-soccer/#When:06:03:34Z Brandi reflects upon her return to pro soccer on the eve of the 1st day of practice. Stay tuned as we follow her journey back to where she belongs! Soccer 2009-03-04T06:03:34-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandi-plays-golf-at-pebble-beach/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandi-plays-golf-at-pebble-beach/#When:05:35:19Z FC Gold Pride’s Chastain plays to fans who remember her soccer glory (Monterey Herald) Friday, February 13, 2009 By: Dennis Taylor | Monterey Herald She undoubtedly has encountered similar scenes many times since that day in July 1999 when she drilled a penalty kick past a Chinese goalkeeper to win the World Cup for the United States women’s soccer team. But Brandi Chastain, one of the most famous female soccer players in the world, still gets a thrill from the attention she attracts from young people. “Honestly, for me, it’s humbling and it’s inspiring,“… Soccer 2009-02-24T05:35:19-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandi/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/brandi/#When:22:18:41Z Brandi’s Picture Soccer 2009-02-19T22:18:41-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/chastain-up-for-new-womens-league-kickoff/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/chastain-up-for-new-womens-league-kickoff/#When:08:18:28Z Brandi Chastain landed in Los Angeles on Friday and quickly sent a text message to her sister-in-law. The response was what she wanted to hear: FC Gold Pride, the Women’s Professional Soccer team based near her Bay Area home, had selected her in the draft going on at the same time in St. Louis. “I took a big sigh of relief,“ Chastain says. “I was very happy that it happened and that it was over. Now we could get on to the real important stuff.“ Chastain and Briana Scurry were selected in a draft populated mostly by players who… News 2009-01-22T08:18:28-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/summer/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/summer/#When:13:30:50Z Now my summer wasn’t all work.  I had FUN wandering around the City (New York) with a soccer ball at my feet, making my way through Central Park, the West Side Highway, the Statue of Liberty, over the Brooklyn Bridge, as well as roaming through Time Square, SoHo, and the East Village.  Along the sidewalks, I made fast friends when I would pass the ball to an unexpected pedestrian, bell man, tourist or tour guide.  Instantly we had a common bond.  The ball became our language of choice, and it immediately brought smiles to our faces.  The greatest lesson I… Soccer, News, Personal 2009-01-14T13:30:50-08:00 http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/whats-happening-ladies/ http://www.brandisworld.com/blog/entry/whats-happening-ladies/#When:13:14:24Z What’s happening ladies?  I am sure you have plenty of great stories to tell me what you did over the story, but until you can write to me, I will share what I have been up to.  As you may know, I have been SO fortunate to have had a great career with the women’s national soccer team and been to three World Cups, as well as three Olympic Games, with the last coming at the home of the Olympics, Athens, Greece.  Each experience, beyond the medals, were amazing in their own way.  The first one in Atlanta,… Soccer, News, Personal 2009-01-14T13:14:24-08:00