Word from Colorado (Emma Hayes' first training camp)

Remote quotes from Mal Swanson, Lindsey Horan and Soph Smith in USWNT training camp this week. Plus, a bit more from my one on one with Trinity Rodman for The Guardian

I’m not in Colorado (alas). Though the mere sight of those Rockies looming behind USWNT practice does make me ache for the West. 

Sophia Smith, who is from Colorado (and who has scored eight goals in 10 games for Portland Thorns this season), was among the first dispatches sent from camp. In a six-minute mp4 sent by US Soccer, Smith said she’d flown to Colorado early to spend more time at home. With only a few team meetings to draw on— their first official practice with Emma Hayes came minutes after the avail— Soph seemed invigorated by the arrival of Emma Hayes:

“Emma's awesome. I mean, we have had a short amount of time with her so far. But in that short amount of time, she's already taught us a lot. She brings a new energy, a new perspective and obviously a lot of experience. I think we're so lucky to have her. This has been a long time coming, we've been waiting for this day and to finally get on the field with her, I know we're really excited about it.” 

Later, Sophia elaborated on the immediate trust the team has for the esteemed English manager, who is fresh off 12 years collecting a cabinet of trophies with Chelsea: