Val's Playbook | Interviews, analysis, and insight on women's soccer, women's basketball, and the world of women's sports.

Val Sardelli
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Sports
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Val's Playbook, your go-to women's sports podcast for all things women's soccer, women's basketball, and the bigger world of women's sports. Host Val Sardelli brings you in-depth conversations, real takes, and behind-the-scenes stories from the athletes, coaches, and moments shaping the game. From breaking down the latest NWSL matchups in women's soccer to analyzing top plays and storylines in the WNBA and college women's basketball, Val gives you insight, personality, and unfiltered discussion you won't get anywhere else. Each episode dives into: The biggest headlines and trends in women's sports Game analysis and season storylines in women's basketball and women's soccer Player performances, updates, and career insights from female athletes Honest conversations about growth, representation, and the future of women's sports Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering women's sports, Val's Playbook keeps you informed, entertained, and part of the conversation shaping the game. 🎧 New episodes weekly — join the playbook and celebrate the stories of female athletes making an impact today.

Episodes

  1. From Val's Perspective: Women's Soccer, Women's Basketball, and the Growth of Women's Sports.

    Apr 9

    From Val's Perspective: Women's Soccer, Women's Basketball, and the Growth of Women's Sports.

    In Episode 10 of Val's Playbook, a women's sports podcast, host Val Sardelli sits down with her roommates for a fun, candid conversation covering everything from her personal journey and the mindset of goalkeepers to work-life balance and the growth of women's sports. Val shares her insights on women's soccer, women's basketball, and the broader world of female athletes, offering personal stories, behind-the-scenes perspectives, and opinions that every fan of women's sports will enjoy. This episode highlights the challenges, triumphs, and passion that drive the game, giving listeners an authentic look into the life of a collegiate athlete and advocate for women's sports. Whether you're a fan of women's soccer, follow women's basketball, or are searching for a women's sports podcast that blends personal storytelling with meaningful discussion, this episode is honest, fun, and inspiring. Follow, subscribe, and join Val as she shares stories, insights, and laughs while celebrating the athletes shaping the future of women's sports.

    40 min
  2. Women's Sports Update: Women's Soccer, Women's Basketball & WNBA 2026 Preview

    Apr 2

    Women's Sports Update: Women's Soccer, Women's Basketball & WNBA 2026 Preview

    In Episode 9 of Val's Playbook, a women's sports podcast, Val Sardelli breaks down the latest updates across women's sports, highlighting key storylines in women's soccer and women's basketball as the game continues to grow at an unprecedented rate. The episode starts with the kickoff of the NWSL season, analyzing early performances, players to watch, and what this year could mean for the future of women's soccer. Val then shifts to women's basketball, diving into the excitement of March Madness, including top teams, standout moments, and the continued rise in visibility for female athletes at the collegiate level. Looking ahead, this episode previews the upcoming WNBA season, including updates on the new CBA, league expansion, and what fans can expect as women's basketball continues to elevate the standard for women's sports. Throughout the conversation, Val highlights how these moments are creating more opportunities and recognition for female athletes across the board. Zooming out, Episode 9 explores the bigger picture of women's sports, including emerging trends, increased media coverage, and why this current moment is one of the most important for the future of the game. Whether you're a fan of women's soccer, follow women's basketball, or are looking for a women's sports podcast that keeps you up to date while spotlighting female athletes, this episode gives you everything you need to know. Follow, subscribe, and join Val as she continues to break down the biggest stories shaping women's sports today.

    40 min
  3. Women's Soccer Coaching, Recruiting, and Building a Program

    Mar 26

    Women's Soccer Coaching, Recruiting, and Building a Program

    In Episode 8 of Val's Playbook, a women's sports podcast, host Val Sardelli sits down with Mary Whisler, head coach of the Purdue Northwest Pride women's soccer team, to talk about the realities of coaching and the continued growth of women's sports. Coach Whisler shares her journey into coaching and what it takes to build a successful collegiate program, offering insight into how she develops female athletes both on and off the field. From leadership and culture to daily responsibilities, this episode gives a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to lead in women's soccer. The conversation also dives into the college recruiting process, including what coaches are really looking for in female athletes and how players can stand out. Whether you're aiming to compete in women's soccer or even women's basketball, the advice shared applies across women's sports at the next level. Beyond recruiting, Val and Coach Whisler explore the bigger picture of women's sports—how the game has evolved, the increasing opportunities for female athletes, and what still needs to change moving forward. Whether you're a fan of women's soccer, follow women's basketball, or are searching for a women's sports podcast that offers real insight into coaching and recruiting, this episode provides a valuable perspective from a collegiate head coach. Follow, subscribe, and join Val as she continues to highlight the people and stories shaping the future of women's sports.

    31 min
  4. ACL Tears in Women's Soccer | The Injury Crisis in Women's Sports

    Mar 19

    ACL Tears in Women's Soccer | The Injury Crisis in Women's Sports

    ACL and knee injuries are becoming one of the most serious concerns in women's sports. In Episode 7 of Val's Playbook, a women's sports podcast, host Val Sardelli sits down with Purdue University Northwest women's soccer players Mia Nisle and Emma Hudock to discuss the rising number of injuries impacting female athletes. Mia is currently recovering from her second ACL tear, while Emma is navigating ongoing challenges following a meniscus injury. Together, they share the reality of what it's like to face a major setback in women's sports, from the long physical recovery process to the mental and emotional toll that comes with trying to return to play as a female athlete. This episode also takes a deeper look at the bigger picture—why ACL and knee injuries are increasing across women's soccer and women's basketball, and why female athletes are statistically more vulnerable. Val and her guests break down what this trend means for the future of women's sports, and why awareness, prevention, and support are more important than ever. Whether you follow women's soccer, are a fan of women's basketball, or are looking for a women's sports podcast that tackles real issues affecting female athletes, this episode offers an honest and important conversation. Follow, subscribe, and join Val as she continues to break down the biggest topics shaping women's sports—on and off the field.

    45 min
  5. Inside Women's Soccer: Mental Toughness, Identity, & the Future of Women's Sports

    Mar 12

    Inside Women's Soccer: Mental Toughness, Identity, & the Future of Women's Sports

    In Episode 6 of Val's Playbook, a women's sports podcast, host Val Sardelli sits down with three standout female athletes from the Purdue University Northwest women's soccer team—Mia Nisle, Sammi Glatczak, and Avery Fraser—to explore the realities, challenges, and wins of competing in women's sports at the collegiate level. This episode offers a deeper look into the lives of female athletes, starting with their individual journeys, positions, and pregame routines that prepare them for competition in women's soccer. Through honest conversation, they share what it really takes to show up every day as student-athletes. Val and her guests also dive into the day-to-day realities of women's sports, including disparities in resources, the pressure of social media, and the ongoing misconceptions surrounding female athletes. The conversation expands beyond the field, touching on mental toughness, identity, and the challenge of balancing academics, athletics, and personal life. Looking ahead, this episode explores the continued growth of women's sports, including NIL opportunities and what the future holds for both women's soccer and women's basketball. The athletes also share advice and insight for the next generation of female athletes working to make their mark. Whether you're a fan of women's soccer, follow women's basketball, or are searching for a women's sports podcast that brings real, unfiltered conversations with female athletes, this episode gives you an authentic inside look at the game. Follow, subscribe, and join Val as she continues to highlight the voices shaping the future of women's sports—on and off the field.

    41 min
  6. Betting on Yourself in Women's Sports: From Women's Soccer to Women's Basketball

    Mar 5

    Betting on Yourself in Women's Sports: From Women's Soccer to Women's Basketball

    In Episode 5 of Val's Playbook, a women's sports podcast, host Val Sardelli sits down with Sammi Glatczak, a collegiate female athlete at Purdue University Northwest, to talk about resilience, identity, and adaptability in women's sports. From competing in both women's soccer and women's basketball at the collegiate level to ultimately focusing on one path, Sammi shares her experience navigating the challenges of being a dual-sport athlete. She opens up about the physical and mental demands of balancing two sports, and how that journey shaped her growth within women's sports. In this episode, Val and Sammi dive into the realities of time management, recovery, and identity as a female athlete, along with the transition that comes with choosing one sport over another. They also discuss the importance of confidence, mental resilience, and handling comparisons across women's soccer and women's basketball. Beyond personal experience, the conversation explores the evolving landscape of women's sports, including increased visibility, NIL opportunities, and the growing support for female athletes at the collegiate level. Whether you're a fan of women's soccer, follow women's basketball, or are looking for a women's sports podcast that highlights real stories from female athletes, this episode offers an honest and inspiring perspective on what it takes to succeed. Follow, subscribe, and join Val as she continues to spotlight the athletes driving the future of women's sports.

    33 min
  7. The Coaching Conversation in Women's Soccer

    Feb 26

    The Coaching Conversation in Women's Soccer

    In Episode 4 of Val's Playbook, a women's sports podcast, host Val Sardelli sits down with Assistant Coach Nicki Rucki from Purdue University Northwest to break down leadership, strategy, and the culture driving success in women's sports. From her experience in women's soccer to insights that translate across women's basketball and beyond, Coach Rucki shares what it takes to build strong programs and develop confident, competitive female athletes. This conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the work that goes into shaping teams at the collegiate level. In this episode, Val and Coach Rucki explore the role of an assistant coach in women's sports, including responsibilities like training, scouting, recruiting, and contributing to game strategy. They also discuss the common traits found in successful programs across women's soccer and women's basketball, and what's fueling the continued growth of women's sports today. Beyond the X's and O's, this episode highlights the ongoing gaps in visibility, investment, and resources that still impact female athletes, while emphasizing how both coaches and players can advocate for change. Coach Rucki also shares her personal journey and the influence of female athletes who helped shape her perspective on leadership and success. Whether you're passionate about women's soccer, follow women's basketball, or are looking for a women's sports podcast that brings real insight into leadership and development, this episode gives you a deeper understanding of what it takes to grow the game. Follow, subscribe, and join Val as she continues to highlight the coaches, stories, and voices pushing women's sports forward.

    19 min
  8. The Goalkeeper Conversation in Women's Sports

    Feb 19

    The Goalkeeper Conversation in Women's Sports

    In Episode 3 of Val's Playbook, a women's sports podcast, Val Sardelli sits down with Meta Fischer, a goalkeeper for the Purdue Northwest women's soccer team, to dive into the mindset, pressure, and leadership required to compete as a female athlete. This episode gives an inside look at the unique role of a goalkeeper in women's soccer, where every decision carries weight and resilience is everything. Meta shares her personal experiences balancing the demands of being a student-athlete, highlighting the time management, discipline, and mental toughness required to succeed in women's sports. Beyond the field, Val and Meta explore the importance of team culture, trust, and camaraderie, while also addressing the competitive environment that exists within college athletics. They discuss how success and failure in women's sports can often be subjective, and how female athletes learn to navigate those challenges while continuing to grow. The conversation also touches on the visibility and recognition of women's sports, and why conversations like this matter for the future of both women's soccer and women's basketball. Through honest insights on leadership and support systems, this episode highlights what it truly means to compete and lead in today's game. Whether you're a fan of women's soccer, follow women's basketball, or are looking for a women's sports podcast that brings real, behind-the-scenes conversations with female athletes, this episode offers a powerful and personal perspective. Follow, subscribe, and join Val as she continues to tell the stories shaping women's sports—on and off the field.

    23 min
  9. Why are Women's Sports Still Undervalued?

    Feb 12

    Why are Women's Sports Still Undervalued?

    In Episode 2 of Val's Playbook, a women's sports podcast, Val Sardelli breaks down why women's sports—including women's soccer and women's basketball—continue to be undervalued despite the undeniable talent, work ethic, and growing fanbase of female athletes. This undervaluation isn't accidental—it's systemic. From historical gaps in investment to ongoing disparities in media coverage, Val unpacks the structural challenges that have shaped the perception and growth of women's sports. In this episode, Val explores the financial instability faced by early leagues in women's soccer, including WUSA, WPS, and the early days of the NWSL, and compares it to the long-term backing of men's leagues. She also dives into how inconsistent media coverage—from WNBA blackouts to limited visibility outside major events—has impacted women's basketball and the broader landscape of women's sports. Beyond visibility, this episode highlights the realities female athletes face when it comes to pay gaps, marketing disparities, and unequal resources. Val also examines how language, comparisons to men's sports, and media narratives influence how women's sports are valued. Through real-world examples, including the U.S. Women's National Team's fight for equal pay and the evolving opportunities for female athletes, this episode makes one thing clear: the issue isn't talent—it's exposure, investment, and priorities. Whether you're passionate about women's soccer, a fan of women's basketball, or looking for a women's sports podcast that goes deeper into the business and culture behind the game, this episode gives you the full picture. Follow, subscribe, and join Val as she breaks down the systems holding women's sports back—and what it will take to change the game for female athletes everywhere.

    16 min
  10. Welcome to the Playbook

    Feb 5

    Welcome to the Playbook

    Women's sports aren't a side story—they're a movement, a culture, and a legacy. In the very first episode of Val's Playbook, a women's sports podcast, host Val Sardelli, a collegiate soccer player at Purdue University Northwest, dives into why women's soccer, women's basketball, and women's sports as a whole deserve more respect, coverage, and recognition. From her first memory watching the 2015 Women's World Cup Final to witnessing the U.S. Women's National Team's fight for equal pay, Val shares her personal journey as one of many female athletes inspired by the growth of the game. She also breaks down why this podcast exists: to bring more visibility, strategy, and real conversation to the world of women's sports. In Episode 1, Val explores what Val's Playbook truly represents and why it's more than just a name. She highlights the importance of preparation, perspective, and storytelling in shaping how women's sports are understood today. The episode also dives into the need to shift narratives around female athletes, while building a space that celebrates growth, representation, and community across women's soccer and women's basketball. Whether you're a fan of women's basketball, passionate about women's soccer, or simply looking for a women's sports podcast that brings authentic insight into the lives of female athletes, this episode sets the foundation for what's ahead. Follow, subscribe, and join Val as she breaks down the playbook for women's sports—on and off the field.

    12 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Welcome to Val's Playbook, your go-to women's sports podcast for all things women's soccer, women's basketball, and the bigger world of women's sports. Host Val Sardelli brings you in-depth conversations, real takes, and behind-the-scenes stories from the athletes, coaches, and moments shaping the game. From breaking down the latest NWSL matchups in women's soccer to analyzing top plays and storylines in the WNBA and college women's basketball, Val gives you insight, personality, and unfiltered discussion you won't get anywhere else. Each episode dives into: The biggest headlines and trends in women's sports Game analysis and season storylines in women's basketball and women's soccer Player performances, updates, and career insights from female athletes Honest conversations about growth, representation, and the future of women's sports Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering women's sports, Val's Playbook keeps you informed, entertained, and part of the conversation shaping the game. 🎧 New episodes weekly — join the playbook and celebrate the stories of female athletes making an impact today.

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