Season Kickoff: Game Recaps, Insights, and Strength Training Secrets!

The season is officially on, and Leah Klenke and Kate Phillips are wasting no time breaking down their opening matches. Leah dishes on a big win over Western Michigan and a gritty tie with powerhouse Arkansas, while Kate shares the highs and learning moments from her matchup against South Dakota State. But this episode isn’t just game talk — it’s gym talk too. The hosts bring in special guest Ana Menendez, Kate’s strength and conditioning coach at Mizzou, to spill the tea on training smart during the season. Spoiler: it’s not about lifting the heaviest weights — it’s about staying strong, mobile, and injury-free. Ana breaks down how workouts change by position, why form > ego, and how recovery and nutrition are just as clutch as any drill on the field. Whether you’re a rising athlete or just trying to stay in the game, her tips are gold. From game-day grind to gym-day gains, this episode has it all. Tune in, get inspired, and let’s keep the momentum rolling. Become a Patron of The BIG LIFECheck out our ⁠⁠⁠new merch! Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ (@girlssoccernetwork)Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ channel