PORTLAND, Ore. – Thorns FC goalkeeper Michelle Betos sat down with PortlandThornsFC.com to talk about that goal, the World Cup, her position, and summer in PDX.
Q.: The video clip of your goal against FC Kansas City has gone viral. Have you experienced any interesting fan recognitions or interactions since then?
Michelle Betos: "The fans have been incredible. I'm so grateful to all of them and for the attention that our team, league, and the sport has received through all of this. It's been an incredibly humbling and fun experience. I mean Abby Wambach was tweeting out messages about my header goal - never in a million years could I have imagined that happening. How ironic and funny."
Q.: What were some of your favorite moments from the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup?
MB: "I loved watching Australia get through the 'Group of Death.' We were all pulling so hard for Steph [Catley], so their run was incredible to watch. Alex [Morgan] scoring her goal in the Colombia game and Jodie [Taylor] scoring in the Canada game were amazing moments too. They are both such great players and teammates and both had to overcome big injuries leading into the tournament. I'm so happy and proud of both of them! Sinc's [Christine Sinclair] last second goal to beat China and Nadine's [Angerer] PK save against France were also really special. It [was] so fun watching our friends excel on such a huge stage."
Q.: With their ability to see the entire field, goalkeepers are often placed in leadership roles. How would you describe your leadership style with the team?
MB: "On the field I like to make sure I am giving as much instruction as possible. I think it is vital for a goalkeeper to organize the players in front of her and to make sure they are aware of all possible offensive threats. It is also important to me that we collectively hold each other accountable and spur each other's success. Off the field, I try to make sure I'm approachable for the younger players and able to help them through their journeys like so many have helped me before."
Q.: Portland is beautiful in the summer, what kind of outdoor activities do you enjoy doing in your free time?
MB: "Portland really is beautiful. It never ceases to amaze me. I don't like to be too active with our limited rest time, but when we've had stretched of days off I've gone on great hikes, spent some time at the coast, and even went down to Black Butte. I also love going to the various parks throughout the city to play Spike Ball or basketball with the girls."
