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Heather Mitts speaks to a group of young

soccer girls at a Girl Talk event in Cincinnati.

Heather Mitts, born June 9, 1978 in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a professional soccer player. She graduated with a degree in advertising from the University of Florida. She ranks as Florida’s all-time leader in starts (94), games played (95), and minutes played (7,547). She helped the team to the NCAA title in 1999. She played professionally with the Philadelphia Charge, helping the team to the playoffs for two years. She made her Olympic debut in 2004, playing in two matches including 90 minutes against Australia. She has also worked for ESPN as a sideline reporter for the 2005 college football season and was a studio analyst for the 2003 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Q & A

You accomplished quite a bit during college and high school. How did you stay so focused while you juggled school and soccer?

High school was easy to juggle the two with my parents expectations of me in school. It came first then my sports. In college, it was an adjustment at first but then became second nature. Luckily, University of Florida has an amazing Athletic Department which really focuses on grades. Our coaches really try to emphasize the importance of being well-rounded on the field and in the classroom. We were required to attend a certain amount of study-hall hours per week in the beginning and once you achieve a certain grade point average, then they assume you can handle the responsibility on your own. They keep on you and just help you to get the most out of your college experience.

Did you have any specific goals as you moved through school? What advice do you have for teenage girls about setting goals?

As far as setting goals, I always did this in high school, college and even now. It helps me to focus on the bigger picture of what I want to accomplish in life. I always have short term goals which help me to get closer to my ultimate goal. The short term goals are probably the most important though because they are attainable and we all need those for our confidence. Even if the ultimate goal is so lofty you might not ever get there atleast the smaller steps will help you to achieve so much in your life.

Not only do you play soccer, but you reported on football as well. Are you fascinated by all sports?

I have been so lucky to be able to dabble in the TV arena. I was actaully going back to get my Masters in Sports Broadcasting but then the WUSA began and I had to follow my dream. I was able to get my start right after college when I was a color analyst for Sunshine Network working on University of Florida soccer games. From that, I covered the World Cup and College Football on ESPN among other events. I do love all sports and I especially love the challenge of covering them on television.

Who were your role models growing up? How does it feel to be a role model for young girls today?

I actually grew up with a lot of male role models. I was really involved in tennis growing up and I admired, Boris Becker and Pete Sampras. I didn't feel we had as many female role models then as we do today. Thats why I embrace my role as much as I do. I love holding my soccer camps because I realize how important it is to be a female role model and to give back. All of my teammates are such strong women. It is amazing that we can play sports for a living and we hope to share that with as many other females as we can.

Did you find it difficult to avoid negative peer pressure growing up? What did you do?

Negative peer pressure is everywhere. It happens even when you are 29 years old. Fitting in seems so important when we are young. If you set goals for yourself then hopefully you will do everything possible to stay on track and not let bad influences get in the way. If your friends aren't understanding of your choices then maybe they shouldn't be your friend. Friends look out for you and respect one another. You just have to be strong and confident in your choices.

What’s been your greatest personal victory in your soccer career?

It is hard to pick just one in this case. In college, we beat UNC 1-0 to win the National Championship. It was one of the closest teams I have ever been on and I will always cherish those friendships. Winning the Olympics was pretty special. Every athletes dreams of this accomplishment. What made it even more special though was the way we won and playing alongside Mia Hamm, Julie Foudy and Joy Fawcett before they retired. The gold medal isn't too bad either.

You mention in your on-line bio that one of your superstitions is your pre-game meal. What is the meal?

The meal is pretty simple. Fruit, granola and yogurt in the morning and some type of pasta at lunch. Plenty of carbs to prepare me for the game. I stuff myself because I know once we head to the game, I most likely won't be eating anything until after the game. I try really hard to eat as healthy as I can, but at the same time I eat a lot of food because I know my body needs fuel to perform at my best.

What was it like running with the bulls in Pamplona?

Running with the Bulls was one of the most exhilarating and scariest experiences of my life. I was with my best friend, Sarah, from college and her brother. Women typically don't run but Sarah and I decided to do it anyway. We were corralled in this tight area and once the first bell rang the gates opened and we were off and running. The second bell rang shortly afterward which meant the bulls weren't far behind. Sarah and I were dodging people and were one of the first ones in the arena. What we didn't know was if you arrive in the arena before the bulls, they throw food at you. So we ran back and hung out in the tunnel til we could see the bulls heading toward us. We couldn't believe how huge they were as they came towards us! It was terrifying for sure but we are safe and sound and definitely a story we can share with our kids one of these days!

Any last thoughts or advice for our readers?

Advice... You have to do what makes YOU happy in life. Make sure to learn from your experiences whether they be good or bad. Set goals for whats important to you. Honest, your family will always be there to support and love you no matter what. Do well in school your future depends on it. Nothing beneficial comes out of doing drugs or drinking alcohol.