As we get deeper into the offseason, and finally get over that playoff loss (we think) we're checking in on some players as they begin their offseason. Today we speak with Chris Cortez, who finished 2017 with 21 appearances (19 starts) and scored five goals.
What are your plans for the offseason?
My plans are to relax for a couple weeks. After that I'll enjoy some time with family and do a little bit of traveling. Then begin to prepare for next season playing with some fellow pro players that live in California until next season starts
What was your favorite memory of the 2017 season?
Favorite memory this season was the combination of going on a long unbeaten run which ended up also putting the club into playoffs for the first time
What was your most challenging moment and how did you overcome it?
Most challenging moment was definitely my mid-season knee injury. Having surgery for the first time in my life and having to bounce back middle of the season.
I was able to overcome with a combination of focusing on the little victories in rehab. Also having my teammates Riggi and Rooney going through knee recoveries at the same time helped us all lean on each other. Finally, my sister was very big in it she came out for my first week after surgery and was able to help take care of me and day to day things while she was on summer break from school.
What was your favorite part about the supporters during home matches?
My favorite part of the supporters was just the atmosphere and love we felt every game. They always rooted for us and picked us up even if things didn't go well. They always pumped us up for the game and created a buzz that was enjoyable to perform in front of.
How much did the supporters help to motivate you during matches?The supporters helped motivate me a ton. They were very supportive and made you want to give that much more on the field. Even when they traveled to other places it made it that much more special
How did it feel to be a part of something like Phoenix Rising FC?
I'm so happy to be part of such a great organization. To see what they've accomplished in such a small time is wonderful. The club has been great to be on and off the field and I can't wait to see it continue to grow.
What are you most proud of from your 2017 season?
For me one of the things I'm proudest of is the fact that I was able to play alongside such fantastic players. We had a wonderful group and some legendary players that I can now call my teammates and friends.
It’s tough to know because it’s still so far away, but if you can, what is your no. 1 personal goal heading into the 2018 season?
For me my personal goal next season is to help my team win the cup next year. As an attacking player obviously I'm trying to create as many chances as I can. So hopefully lots of goals and assists to help us get there
As we get deeper into the offseason, and finally get over that playoff loss (we think) we’re checking in on some players as they begin their offseason. Today we speak with Chris Cortez, who finished 2017 with 21 appearances (19 starts) and scored five goals.
What are your plans for the offseason?
My plans are to relax for a couple weeks. After that I’ll enjoy some time with family and do a little bit of traveling. Then begin to prepare for next season playing with some fellow pro players that live in California until next season starts
What was your favorite memory of the 2017 season?
Favorite memory this season was the combination of going on a long unbeaten run which ended up also putting the club into playoffs for the first time
What was your most challenging moment and how did you overcome it?
Most challenging moment was definitely my mid-season knee injury. Having surgery for the first time in my life and having to bounce back middle of the season.
I was able to overcome with a combination of focusing on the little victories in rehab. Also having my teammates Riggi and Rooney going through knee recoveries at the same time helped us all lean on each other. Finally, my sister was very big in it she came out for my first week after surgery and was able to help take care of me and day to day things while she was on summer break from school.
What was your favorite part about the supporters during home matches?
My favorite part of the supporters was just the atmosphere and love we felt every game. They always rooted for us and picked us up even if things didn’t go well. They always pumped us up for the game and created a buzz that was enjoyable to perform in front of.
How much did the supporters help to motivate you during matches?The supporters helped motivate me a ton. They were very supportive and made you want to give that much more on the field. Even when they traveled to other places it made it that much more special
How did it feel to be a part of something like Phoenix Rising FC?
I’m so happy to be part of such a great organization. To see what they’ve accomplished in such a small time is wonderful. The club has been great to be on and off the field and I can’t wait to see it continue to grow.
What are you most proud of from your 2017 season?
For me one of the things I’m proudest of is the fact that I was able to play alongside such fantastic players. We had a wonderful group and some legendary players that I can now call my teammates and friends.
It’s tough to know because it’s still so far away, but if you can, what is your no. 1 personal goal heading into the 2018 season?
For me my personal goal next season is to help my team win the cup next year. As an attacking player obviously I’m trying to create as many chances as I can. So hopefully lots of goals and assists to help us get there
