HOW TO TALK TO THE MEDIA AS A SOCCER PLAYER
By Lynn Berling-Manuel

For any of us in the media listening to the player Hope Solo in her biting, post-game interview after the U.S. had lost its semifinal World Cup game, we were likely thinking the same thing: "Great quotes... but why doesn't someone stop her?!" That 30-second interview on national television had predictable results, including being shunned by her teammates, sent home in disgrace and likely not playing again as long as Greg Ryan is coach however long that may be.)

Her emotions were understandable and as a fan you may even agree with her, but players learn to handle high pressure moments off the field, just like they learn how to handle them on the field: experience. This was not one of Solo's shining moments.

It's an important lesson for grassroots soccer organizations on why they should provide media training for both their male and female soccer players. It should start in club and high school. And it should be considered part of the business of running your organization.

Whether it's a post game interview after a loss to a cross-town high school rival, a human interest story on the rise of a powerhouse youth club or an individual profile on a young star soccer player, newspaper, TV, internet and magazine reporters may want to talk to your players (and coaches!) The opportunity will inevitably come up quickly and often by surprise. The key is to be practiced and ready.

Honing these skills in a youth player means they'll be ready when they move to the higher levels of college, national teams and pro.

Here are a few media tips for players:

1. Remember, as the person being interviewed you are in control of the interview. You're the one answering the questions!
2. Listen to the question. Take time to answer. Don't feel rushed. Only answer questions you know the answer to. "I really don't know" can be an acceptable answer.
3. Answer questions clearly, concisely and positively.
4. A player's reputation is enhanced when he/she is gracious in defeat and answers a reporter's questions at difficult times.
5. Don't showboat. Telling a reporter how great you are could be an embarrassing quote in tomorrow's newspaper.
6. Practice mock interviews with teammates and friends. Have them ask you tough questions.
7. You don't have to answer every question. If you're not comfortable with a question, you can respond: "My coach (or other appropriate person) is probably the best person to answer that."
8. Don't criticize your teammates or the opponent. They may seem worth criticizing, but you never come off well doing it. Compliments make you look much classier.
9. Speak to reporters any time a request is made - even after a disappointing loss. It's an important experience to get under your belt.
10. Answer honestly, within limits. You may be frustrated with your teammates or your coach, but you can honestly say, "Everybody worked hard and did their best, the other team was just on today." Even better, be specific. What did someone on your or the opponent's team do that really stood out? What was a special strength?
11. Listen carefully to post-game interviews of college and professional athletes. Consider who sounds smart and savvy. Those are the athletes you want to emulate.

Practice and preparation is what will help a player be prepared for the media. Youth soccer organizations should help provide that experience.

Lynn Berling-Manuel is CEO & Publisher of Soccer AmericaCommunications LLC. Short Passes, her monthly column, has appeared in Soccer America Magazine for almost 30 years. She is also a past two-term president of the Professional Soccer Reporters Association.