Lindsay Heaps has a lot on her plate — and she couldn’t be happier. The veteran midfielder and captain of the US Women’s National Team (USWNT) will soon return to her hometown of Denver, Colorado to join a new training session. Denver Summit FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The move stateside means leaving his current base in Lyon, France, where he has been part of OL Lyonnes Football Club for the past four years. But it’s just a game. Heaps is also stepping into a new off-field role as host Captain with Sam Mewis, podcast from the Men in Blazers Network, which looks at how Heaps will lead the UWSNT to the 2027 FIFA World Cup as women’s football reaches new levels of visibility and competition.
It’s a role that suits this stage of Heaps’ career perfectly. Heaps has become a trusted leader and voice in the game, shaped by years of playing at home and abroad, growing along with the sport itself. In the United States, the NWSL has gained momentum on all fronts: talent, coaching, infrastructure, and expectations. His move to Denver reflects that momentum and offers a clear picture of where the league is headed. Here, she talks about what she’s most excited about, both for the NWSL season and the lead-up to the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
When logging in Captain
“I honestly thought to myself, do I want to do this during my career, during my playing days? Is this more of a post-career thing? But the fact that it was Men in Blazers and that such good people wanted to do (the podcast) the right way… I was like, this is really something that I’m a perfect fit for. And I was so excited because they wanted to talk about it…”
About what it looks like to reflect during the game
“It’s really special because you get to reflect on all the things that go into our lives, in camps and (and) games that provide some context.”
About leadership, in real time
“I’ve learned from a lot of the leaders of this USWNT and the captains of this team. I’m taking pieces from everyone as I grow as a leader in my own way.”
About the evolution of the NWSL
“The NWSL has built something amazing. I think it’s one of the best and most competitive leagues in the world. No game is easy … any team can win on any given day.”
On the way back home to Denver
“I’ve always said I want to go to the right place. Not just because Denver is going there. They hired the right head coach (Nick Cushingformer coach of Manchester City Women FC) in place. He has such an amazing tactical mind and he is one of the most famous coaches in women’s football. The fact that Denver was able to get him is a victory in itself. Here’s what I’ve seen the NWSL do: Invest in coaches. And I can play in my home state and in front of my family and friends. So it’s going to be amazing.”
At this stage of his career
“It’s a very different experience because I’m older, I’m more experienced and the confidence level is a little different. I wanted to make the most of it, which means being an impact player while also helping the youngsters.”
With the advice she gives her younger self
“Man, I probably would have told him the same thing…never lose the love you have for what you’re passionate about. I always think about that little Lindsey who just loved football, he practiced all day, every day. He just wanted to touch the ball or score a goal. (That young Lindsey) just fell in love with the game. (And I’ll never let you let me love you to have).
About why this is important
“If you fall in love with it, you don’t go to work hard…you have to love to work hard.”
About staying strong
“My support group. My little circle is very, very special to me. There is no way I would be where I am without them.”
Rapid fire
A few quick questions to get to know you without much thought.
Pre-game ceremony: A quiet thought or prayer to yourself in the field
Hype song: Drake or Eminem
Post game meal: Chick-fil-A
Currently listening: New heights with Jason and Travis Kelce
A dream collaboration: Guest’s place in New heights
