DeBree Blog: Training with the U.S. U19 & U20 Teams

DURHAM, N.C.-- Like most Duke Athletes, my sport influences my life in a way that is all encompassing, but has certainly changed me for the better. The goal of playing at the highest level is constant, which for me, is playing for the U.S. Women's National Team. I was invited to two USWNT camps in the U14 and U15 age groups during my freshman year of high school.

After a back injury in the second camp, I didn't return to the national team until the summer before coming to Duke, when I was invited to Mexico City with the U18 team. Although the Duke women's soccer season had a disappointing end, individually I made positive contributions, and after a hard spring season, I was invited to a U20 camp in Carson, Calif. Staying on the U20 roster would mean having the privilege to play in the 2016 U20 Women's World Cup in Papua New Guinea.

I was extremely fortunate to come into a camp where Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly Heavey, Tisha Venturini, and Julie Foudy all came to speak to us. They discussed team culture and it was incredible to hear such legendary players urging us to instill the same culture that they had built. The idea that I, and the girls sitting around me, could have the honor to continue the culture created by players we had admired our whole lives was surreal. It also made me think about our DWS team culture and a wave of pride followed. DWS is a family, and throughout this spring, I think we have become even more dedicated to each other and the program. To say the least, I am excited for next fall.

The more specific message that has stuck with me following Mia, Kristine, Tisha and Julie's presentation, was their emphasis on leadership. Julie Foudy, a captain of the USWNT herself, said, “Carla Overbeck is the best captain we've ever had.” DWS is incredibly fortunate to have an assistant coach that is so highly respected as a leader, player and person. My goal is to emulate her by being a leader for Duke and for the U20s should I have the opportunity. As much as I work to have an influence on the field, this past U20 camp has reminded me of how important the more intangible aspects of soccer are, some of which are found off the field.

Recently, I was invited back into a U19 camp, which will be from May 16-23 in Chula Vista, Calif. The U19 age group provides a larger pool for the coaches to select players for the World Cup, because both the U19s and U20s will be eligible. Although, of course, I would prefer to be back with the U20s, I find I perform best when odds are against me and I have a chance to prove people wrong. I look forward to growing more as a player and person this camp, and above all, making Duke proud.

Schuyler DeBree