Hello Everyone!

I love the Bay Area for many reasons, primarily because it’s where I’ve always called ‘home’.  As many of you may already know, I make my home in San Jose.  Thankfully, this means that I don’t have to relocate before, during or after the season. 

I want to begin by telling you all how excited I am to say I’ll be returning to FC Gold Pride in 2010! The 2009 Inaugural Season of Women’s Professional Soccer and FC Gold Pride was a big step in the right direction for women’s sports.

As a working mom, my schedule is usually pretty hectic and the offseason is no exception! Since our season ended, I’ve been to Denmark, Chicago, New York and Washington DC… all for work, of course.  Thankfully, I LOVE what I do so it’s hardly ‘work’ in that sense.

I was invited, by the United States Olympic Committee, to be a part of the delegation that helped make the final push for Chicago to host the 2016 Summer Games. Unfortunately, Chicago was not selected, but  it was a memorable experience and I know our great country will be hosting the games sometime in the future!  I was able to bring my son Jaden along with me to Chicago (he loves airplanes).  We were able to visit with my brother and his family who reside in the Windy City.

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 women who are great role models and provide inspiration to the up and coming generations of future stars, leaders and athletes. 

I’ve been back to Buck Shaw Stadium a couple times to take in a few Santa Clara women’s soccer games (my alma mater) and also coached an FC Gold Pride Academy Clinic on SCU’s practice field.  I want to give a quick shout-out to Suzanne, Donna, Mel, Jenn and Steph who all showed great passion and potential in the game of soccer, hope to share a field again with you ladies soon!

I also spent one Sunday morning earlier this month running a half marathon (13.1 miles) through the streets of San Jose.  I’ve been getting in some fitness training and a few touches on the ball when I can. When I’m at home, I make it a priority to spend as much time as I can with my family. 

I’m anticipating a busy but exciting remainder of the offseason and I’m really looking forward to getting back out on the field with the Pride!  Until then, you can always check in with me at Brandisworld.com!

See you around town!
Brandi Chastain