Coffee & Valkyries: Say hello to Nicole Momiki

History is made on this episode of “Coffee & Valkyries,” as we had the incredible privilege to talk with OL Reign forward Nicole Momiki in her first English-language interview. Rounding out this episode, we look at OL Reign’s roster and NWSL Challenge Cup schedule, and discuss a Seattle male athlete’s initiative and his challenge to others to invest in and support local women’s sports.

The interview with Momiki begins around the 20:30 mark, and here’s what she recalls about her reaction last year when she found out OL Reign were interested in her:

I didn’t think it was real, because US women’s soccer is the best in the world. And [OL] Reign is also one of the best teams in the US, so I couldn’t imagine that I’d be playing here. Before [OL] Reign contacted me, I wanted to go to Europe, but after knowing [OL] Reign were making changes and Megan Rapinoe is here, even if my style doesn’t fit to US style, I decided to come. It’s the biggest challenge for me.

HOSTS

Susie Rantz (@SusieRants)

Jacob Cristobal (@jacobcristobal)

Steve Voght (@voght)

Tim Foss (@timostlundfoss)

CREDITS

Album artwork: Amy Camber

Intro music: “A Brave Badger” by Soft and Furious

Outro music: “Toxic Music” by Soft and Furious