Q&A with Chicago Red Stars' Kate Markgraf
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Tuesday, June 01, 2010
Chicago Red Stars defender and three-time Olympic medalist Kate Markgraf is more than a professional women's soccer player. She's wife to Chris and mom to son Keegan, 3, and 9-month-old twins Carson and Xavier. Recently, Chicago Parent had a chance to learn what life is like for the Michigan native on and off the soccer pitch.
Q: How does being a three-time Olympian, a professional soccer player and a mom work for you?
A: It's definitely challenging, but I have a great support staff. I think every mom can attest that you have more energy than you thought you ever could and you can perform just as well on less sleep as you thought you could.
Q: What was it like to medal in the Olympics and share the podium with your son?
A: I had already won gold before and I knew I wanted to do it as a mom. Honestly, that was the highlight of my Olympics. Family is the most important thing for me and here I am achieving a life-long dream again.
Q: Do you hope your kids will be soccer players?
A: I do hope they're athletic, because I think it just makes life a little bit easier in gym class. I just hope they're lucky enough to find something they're really passionate about and they can pour themselves into that.
Q: A lot of little girls look up to you and your teammates. Is there any message you want to pass on?
A: Don't be afraid to be competitive. Don't be afraid to just go out and play on your own every day when there's no practice. … I think the message to give to everyone is to find a passion and just go after it.
