Amber Brooks: The Journey from Youth Soccer to the Pro Ranks

In this episode of Chat By The Pitch, we sit down with Amber Brooks, the fearless captain of Dallas Trinity FC, to talk about her incredible journey from youth soccer to leading in the USL Super League. She shares how playing with boys helped shape her game, the reality of trades in professional soccer, and what it's like being part of a brand-new club. We also dive into the differences between college and pro soccer, her time at Bayern Munich, and how she sees the future of women's soccer evolving in the U.S.Key Talking Points• Amber’s early career and playing in mixed-gender teams• Her journey through youth national teams and UNC• Transitioning from college to the professional level• The experience of playing abroad with Bayern Munich• The business side of pro soccer: trades, contracts, and league policies• Leadership and mentorship in women’s soccer• The growth and future of the USL Super League• The role of academies in player development• Challenges and rewards of playing for a new club like Dallas Trinity FC• Life beyond soccer: career planning and giving back to the gameTune in to Learn:• How Amber’s competitive mentality shaped her career• The differences between European and American soccer development• The impact of coaching styles at UNC vs. the professional level• What it takes to be a leader on and off the pitch• Why player development in the U.S. still has a long way to go10 Quotes from Amber Brooks• “I love winning. It could be the smallest drill, and I will be so upset if I don’t win.”• “I was one of the first players to know about the USL Super League. Now, I’m proud to be part of it.”• “Playing with boys made me stronger, faster, and taught me how to hold my own.”• “The professional game isn’t just about skill—it’s about being able to show up every day at a high level.”• “Trades in the NWSL were a rude awakening. I learned quickly that this is a business.”• “UNC was the best decision of my life. Anson Dorrance is the greatest coach I’ve ever had.”• “At Dallas Trinity FC, we’re building something special—it’s exciting to be part of the foundation.”• “The future of women’s soccer needs structure, investment, and smarter player development.”• “The Super League is giving young players a chance to train with pros while keeping their college eligibility. That’s huge.”• “I’ve played all over the world, and the Cotton Bowl field is one of the best I’ve ever stepped on.”Connect with Amber Brooks:📷 Instagram: @abrooks22Connect with Dallas Trinity FC:🐦 X (Twitter): @dallastrinityfc📷 Instagram: @dallastrinityfc📘 Facebook: Dallas Trinity FC🌐 Website: Dallas Trinity FC Official SiteFollow Chat By The Pitch:🐦 X (Twitter): @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review: Please subscribe to Chat By The Pitch on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your support helps us grow and bring more in-depth conversations with players, coaches, and industry leaders.Mentioned in this episode:Reeplayer:Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.Reeplayer