A calm sea does not make a skilled sailor—a pretty old saying about learning to handle emotions, especially in challenging times. Mastering this art means there’s no stopping you. That is, unfortunately, the only area where someone like Trinity Rodman struggles, yet it’s also something she never wants to ‘change‘. Even someone successful like Rodman has openly acknowledged that she often leads with her emotions, viewing it as a key part of what defines her as a player.

“I feel like everyone has kind of accepted it,” began the USWNT superstar during an exclusive conversation with The Athletic writer Emily Olsen. Sadly, Rodman feels that most people perceive her as unapproachable in those moments. However, in reality, she is open to constructive criticism as the 22-year-old views it as essential for her growth, especially with her emotions playing a key role in that process. 

“It’s a balance because, for me, I think the emotional part of my game makes me entertaining, and I think it makes me Trinity,” said the Washington Spirits star. Then again, it’s not like she wants to avoid portraying her true self on the pitch. “I don’t ever want that to change. I don’t want to be a robot ever,” added the daughter of the iconic Dennis Rodman, whose father rarely found himself in heated moments on the basketball court and used to be more focused on “annoying his opponents.”

That, though, isn’t the case with Rodman, who is rather open to letting things go on with the natural flow. While it sometimes benefits her, there are times when it has worked against her, like ending up on the referee’s books. However, we are certain that Trinity doesn’t have regrets for showing too much emotion on the pitch, considering that even someone like Emma Hayes likes her own players to be vulnerable!

Trinity Rodman denies allegations of being ‘not coachable’ by citing Emma Hayes’ help!

“I feel like because I am emotional, people think that I’m not as coachable or approachable in those situations,” she admitted during a similar conversation. However, that’s actually not the case. As mentioned before, she is open to hear criticism from not just her coach, but from her teammates as well. “I want the people that I’m around, I want to know what they’re feeling.”

The biggest help she could have received on this front is from none other than Emma Hayes. “I’ve learned a lot, and Emma’s honestly helped me because she’s made it clear, like, ‘Hey, I don’t want to force you to be somebody you’re not.’ She just says there’s a time and place for that,” revealed Trinity, also acknowledging her transformation under the former Chelsea boss since the Olympics.

It’s good to see that Trinity Rodman has surrounded herself with people who are honest and open with her. Talk about self-awareness, because the little Trin is filled with it!