“I actually do see how you were a founder as an athlete,” said Christen Press while talking about her former USWNT teammate Tobin Heath. Often, we assume that the player wearing the captain’s armband is the only one capable of leading others. But boy, were we wrong. Press’ account of an incident involving her significant other will leave you just as shocked as it did the other Manchester United players in the locker room.

The story time came on one of the latest segments of the RE—INC podcast, co-hosted by the renowned couple. Press recalled that during their time at Old Trafford, Heath was sidelined with an injury. To make matters worse, the team wasn’t performing well. Wearing a beanie and a big green puff coat, Heath stomped into the locker room just as the players were speaking before the coach arrived.

“You read us all the Riot Act; you had so much passion,” narrated Press. “Tears were coming down your face and you were mad that you weren’t playing, that we were in this iconic moment, and we were nervous and weren’t embracing it. These British women were like, ‘Oh my.’ And that was the way that you lead with your heart,” revealed the Angel City star.

Go big or go home—classic American way! Consider this as one of the mottos on which Heath’s journey in the beautiful game was based. Even though the retired midfielder couldn’t have been a part of the team due to her injury, she didn’t hold back to inspire her fellow United teammates with her striking words and emotions.

This is exactly how her nature helped them win not just one but two World Cups, score 36 goals, and provide 42 assists in over 181 appearances. Now, given that some time has passed since she left the beautiful game, we might assume that her inspiring and leadership qualities have faded away. But think again—this is Tobin Heath!

Leadership continues for Tobin Heath beyond the pitch!

Tobin Heath may have left the pitch, but the qualities that defined her as a player remain unchanged. Continuing to highlight how her significant other’s leadership continues to inspire, Christen Press recalled a recent incident from their off-pitch venture. The Angel City striker shared that during a Zoom meeting with their Re—Inc team, Heath told them, “Unless you’re crying in the shower after every meeting, then you’re not trying hard enough.”

Of course, to Heath, this statement sounded “ridiculous.” Her reaction clearly stemmed from a sense of discomfort, as she felt Press was unintentionally giving others the impression that Re—Inc. was a terrible workplace. But that wasn’t the case at all—Press had more to add, further proving how Tobin continues to lead and inspire, even beyond the game.

“No, it’s the best place ever because we have a leader that leads with their heart, that has passion and love, believes in what we’re trying to do, and thinks it’s important and isn’t afraid to show vulnerability because you care,” concluded Press on a heartfelt note.

How good of a place Re—Inc is to work at is something best answered by its employees. But on a serious note, one thing is certain—Tobin Heath has never changed, as she continues to lead the way with her unparalleled leadership.