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 thatyou 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.
