In the second episode of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, professional defender Cori Dyke shares her journey from youth soccer in Fort Collins, Colorado to becoming a record-setting player at Penn State and a champion in her rookie season with the Orlando Pride in the NWSL.
Cori joins Michael Wright and Chris Martinez for a deep conversation about elite performance, long-term consistency, and what it takes to stand out in the college and pro levels of the game.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
⚽ The daily habits and training routines that helped Cori transition successfully to the NWSL.
⚽ How she cultivated discipline, resilience, and leadership throughout her college and pro career.
⚽ What aspiring players should focus on beyond raw talent.
⚽ The off-field mindset that separates good players from elite professionals.
Whether you’re a player aiming for college recruitment, a pro contract, or a coach supporting that journey, this episode delivers valuable insights from an athlete who has lived it at every stage.
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What Will You Discover in This Episode?
- How backyard battles and thousands of reps built an unshakable technical foundation.
- The kind of experience that forces you to level up—or get left behind.
- What’s the real secret to maximizing every training session? (Hint: it’s not what you think)
- The mental strategy to shake off a mistake without losing your edge.
- Why mastering small details—like scanning—can completely change your game.
- The power of communication on the field—and when words make the biggest impact.
- How to approach the college recruiting process with clarity and an open mindset.
- What no one tells you about the jump from youth to college soccer—and how to prepare for it.
- Training is only half the game: elite-level nutrition, sleep, and recovery habits.
- What to do when recognition doesn’t come—and how to stay locked in without losing the love for the game.
This episode is packed with honest stories, actionable lessons, and powerful takeaways to help you grow as a player and as a person. If you’re ready to level up, don’t miss it.
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Introduction [0:00]
- Chris Martinez and Michael Wright welcome standout Orlando Pride defender Cori Dyke.
- From youth soccer in Colorado to the NWSL, Cori’s path is a story of relentless work, elite mindset, and love for the game.
Foundations of a Pro Player [2:00]
- Cori began playing at age 4 in Fort Collins, CO, later moving to Denver for a more competitive environment.
- She credits her early club experiences—at Real, Rush, and Rapids—and her sister as vital influences.
- Backyard battles, technical camps, and endless reps helped build her elite comfort on the ball.
The Role of Repetition and Competition [6:00]
- Mastery through constant ball contact and 1v1s with her sister.
- Importance of combining safe learning spaces with competitive environments.
Expanding the Player Profile: Tactical, Physical, and Mental Growth [9:00]
- Cori discusses her evolution in the other pillars: tactics, fitness, and mindset.
- Transition from club to college required significant tactical and physical development.
- Film study and self-reflection became key tools.
Mindset & Growth Mentality [11:00]
- Open mindset was critical for handling adversity.
- Early national team rejection fueled her determination to improve.
- Belief in long-term development and learning from failure.
Knowing the Next Level [13:00]
- Key moments: playing up with older teams, national team camps.
- Each new level revealed areas to grow and exposed her to higher standards.
Training with Intention [18:00]
- Showing up to every training session with a purpose.
- Setting small goals, self-correcting during sessions, and post-practice reflection.
- The power of owning your development.
Overcoming the Fear of Mistakes [22:00]
- Learning to shift focus to the next action.
- Understanding how to reset: scanning, spacing, and playing simple.
- The self-critic and tools to manage negative internal dialogue.
The Power of Communication and Encouragement [28:00]
- Importance of verbal support, especially at younger levels.
- As tactics evolve, so does instructional communication.
Navigating the College Recruitment Process [30:00]
- Key avenues: ECNL showcases, college ID camps, consistent performance.
- Emphasizes open-mindedness and choosing environments that support development.
Life at Penn State [34:00]
- A blue-collar culture where growth trumped flash.
- Choosing development and coaching culture over facilities.
- Position evolution: from midfielder to center back, earning Big Ten Defender of the Year.
Transition to the Pro Game [43:00]
- Major adjustment: speed and intensity of play.
- Foundational habits from college helped her adapt.
- Versatility helped her succeed as an outside back at Orlando Pride.
Professional Routine & Lifestyle [54:00]
- Early mornings, film sessions, tailored lifts, and recovery protocols.
- Prioritizing nutrition, hydration, and sleep to maintain performance.
Growth at the Highest Level [57:00]
- IDP (Individual Development Plans), constant feedback, and embracing new challenges.
- Mentors like Morgan Brian and Marta shaping her journey.
- Staying grounded through purpose and passion.
Advice for Young Players [1:05:00]
- Embrace the journey: fail, learn, and keep growing.
- Build a strong support system and hold on to joy.
- Success isn’t about awards—it’s about becoming the best version of yourself.
Final Reflections [1:08:00]
- Dealing with internal pressure and self-doubt.
- Working with sports psychologists and leaning on mentors.
- Staying focused on growth, not just validation.
This episode is packed with elite insights for players, parents, and coaches looking to understand what it really takes to succeed in today’s game—from the mental to the physical, from the tactical to the personal.
