USWNT Players to Receive Personalised Mental Training From Headspace Ahead of World Cup

A new multi-year U.S. Soccer partnership with meditation and mindfulness app Headspace will see every member of the USWNT receive a personalized mental training program ahead of the Women's World Cup this summer as they look to retain the title won in 2015.

The three-year deal has been agreed between Headspace, U.S. Soccer and Major League Soccer, promising to provide 'thousands' of app subscriptions each year to U.S. Soccer and MLS players, coaches and staff to help strengthen their mindfulness and meditation skills.

"Not only will this partnership help all of our players' performance on the field, but it will also have significant impact on their wellness off the field," explained U.S. Soccer Director of High Performance James Bunce.

"We are extremely excited to work closely with the Headspace development team and the U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT) to individually support every player on the road to France.

"With this project, each player will be provided an individually-tailored mindfulness and meditation program to help make sure that no stone is left unturned in these players' preparation for this summer's tournament."

Katharine Lotze/GettyImages

USWNT coach Jill Ellis said: "We know that mental preparation is as important as physical preparation for elite athletes. We are excited that Headspace has partnered with U.S. Soccer to provide the players another tool to help them perform at their highest levels heading into, and through the tournament this summer."

NWSL, the top professional women's league in the United States, will also have access to the same benefits, though details will be provided at a later date.