Kristine Lilly Rick Stewart/Allsport

Do you do any ab-strengthening exercises besides crunches?
Kelly O'Brien, Long Beach, N.Y.

Our team does four simple moves that work not just the upper and lower abdominals, but also the oblique (side) and back muscles. First, lie on your back and prop yourself up on your elbows; raise your body so only your forearms and heels support you, hold for 20 seconds, then lower. Turn onto your left side, upper body propped up on your left elbow; raise your body so only your left foot and forearm support you, hold for 20 seconds, then lower. Repeat on your right side. Finally, lie on your stomach, upper body supported on your forearms; raise your body so only your arms and toes support you, hold, then release. Work your way up to 30 seconds. (We're up to 40 seconds.)

How do you know if you're pushing yourself too hard physically or emotionally?
Sonya Ewan, Albuquerque

If you lose interest in practice or the game, or you're not having fun anymore, that's a sign you're emotionally drained. Physically, it's harder to realize, because we all get tired. Ask yourself a few questions: 1) Am I just tired or generally worn out? If you're giving 100% and not playing at the same level, maybe you're run-down and need a break. 2) Can my involvement in other sports be a factor? Playing more than one sport can take a tollyou may have to scale back your workouts. 3) Am I just exhausted, or do I feel real pain? Ignoring an injury will only hurt you more.

How can I improve my reaction time for rebounds or crosses?
Jessica Lavoie, Saco, Maine

When you're waiting for a crossa pass from either side of the field, on the ground or in the airkeep your eye on the ball and time your run into the box, so that you meet the ball as it lines up with the goalmouth. To increase your chances of scoring, shoot the ball in the direction it came from. Rebounds are trickier because the ball can pop off the post at any angle. Most importantly, try to get a shot off as fast as possible or just get a foot on the ball to redirect it into the goal. With both crosses and rebounds, be sure not to overrun the ball.

Have you ever lost your passion for soccer? If so, how did you find it again?
Bevan McNamara, High Point, N.C.

I've never really lost my passion for soccer, but there are times when I feel burned out. That's when I step back and spend time riding my bike, in-line skating or hanging out with friends. Even in the seven or eight months when we were training for the Olympics, we got a week off every month or so, and sometimes during those breaks I wouldn't even look at a soccer ball. When the week was over, though, I was eager to get back on the field. Taking time off gives you perspective, but if you're still not excited after a break, you might think about taking the season off. Try other sports, then see how you feel. You may rediscover your passion, or even find a new one.

Have you ever played with guys? Do you think it helped your game?
Kathi Devlin, Brooklyn

I played with boys on the Wilton Wonders in Connecticut from second to ninth grades, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. It not only helped me as a player, but I also got to be around boys all the time! As I got older, they got faster and stronger, so I had to push myself more. On the national team, we scrimmage against boys' high school select teams. They're usually faster than we are, so it helps us play faster. They also pick up on small mistakes quickly, so we have to protect the ball better. Plus, playing with guys is great because it's so much fun when we beat them.

Do you and your teammates fight? If so, how do you resolve it?
Annie, Troy, Mich.

My teammates and I don't fight. We are competitive on the field, and work with each other to be the best. Once we leave the field, we leave things there. We spend a lot of time together on the road, and we make the best of that time -- it makes life more enjoyable. There are times when you may need quiet, in which case be sure to take some time for yourself. If anyone on our team has an issue about something, we make an effort to chat about it and work it out. Remember, a team is in it together -- one bad apple can hurt the bunch. If you know going into the season that your team is the most important thing, you make every effort to make it a success.

How can I develop a stronger cross kick?
Brittany, Waukesha, Wis.

Proper technique is crucial whether you're shooting, crossing or passing. When crossing the ball, plant one foot behind it and position your kicking foot under the ball, toe pointing up. Once you've honed your technique you can strike the ball with more power. Work on lengthening your backswing and following through completely. But remember, harder isn't always better. The idea is to get the ball in front of the goal, beating the opposing team's defense so your team can score. Whether you do that with power or finesse, the result is the same: Your team is up one point.

 
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