Shirilla’s Paris Games Preview
Q: What is your role with the team?
A: I am the team’s sports physical therapist. My primary role is to provide treatment to our players to keep them healthy and ready to perform at their best. I work within the sports science and medical team, collaborating with Team USA athletic trainers, sports performance coaches, sports scientists, and physicians to optimize and manage all aspects of our athletes’ care. This includes acute injury care, return-to-play strategies, recovery, mental health, injury prevention, hydration, and fueling needs.
Q: How do you help USA Soccer athletes prepare for Paris?
A: In preparation for the Olympics, the team has had multiple training camps over the past year, both domestically and internationally. At these camps, I focus on building rapport with the staff and players to foster strong relationships and chemistry. This will be crucial for our success as we journey through the tournament. By the time we are in France, I will have a thorough understanding of each player’s needs, and they will be confident in the care they receive. Outside of these training camps, the staff have weekly meetings to track players’ health and performance with their clubs and to plan for all aspects of the Olympic tournament across seven venues and cities in France.
Q: What are you most looking forward to in Paris?
A: I am looking forward to supporting and working with the players and staff. We have all dedicated so much time and effort to have a successful and memorable tournament. I’m excited to see our team compete on this world stage and make a run for the gold.
Q: How have you prepared yourself mentally and physically for the intensive schedule of the Olympic Games?
A: I have been fortunate to work at three U20 World Cups and other tournament-formatted games with US Soccer. These experiences have prepared me well for the mental and physical demands that the Olympic tournament will bring.
Q: What will you do if the USA wins it all?
A: We will have a fantastic night celebrating with the entire team. Regardless of how we finish, I will celebrate our journey and the many memories we made throughout this Olympic cycle. Being able to represent and be a part of Team USA at the Olympics is a great honor, and I am looking forward to it.
