Becky Sauerbrunn

Defenders must be careful yet decisive when taking action.

It's always been a dream of mine to be an Olympian.

At the Olympics, I'm representing the United States as well as the town and people who helped shape me.

I've never been the tallest or the strongest or the fastest. But I'd like to think that I can read the game well enough, that I can position myself well enough, that I can level the playing field when it comes to physical differences. When it comes to height, whoever wants the ball more is going to win it.

When I represent my country on the field, I do so with heartfelt gratitude to the people who fight for and defend our fundamental freedoms - to believe in whatever I want, to love whoever I want, and to be a valued member of society while doing so. That's the America I play for.

Julie Johnston is what I would call a loud central defender, as far as how she tackles and how she plays - you notice her. And you notice her in a positive way. She's a destroyer. She interrupts plays and tackles the crap out of people. That's a very visual thing.

That's one of the best parts of my job. I love interacting with the community, getting out there and getting to know people and making bonds with the community.

It's a rare treat to be able to play in front of friends and family.

I think a lot of where I find my confidence is knowing I've prepared as well as I could have.

Soccer is always changing and evolving, and I think our national team has had to change with the times.

When I started with the national team, it was made very clear I was going to be the backup to Christie Rampone and Rachel Buehler. So for the first few years, it was just me training my heart out and pushing those centerbacks to be the best they could be.

With soccer, it's such a dynamic sport. It's important that however you play, you should be training like that.