Pregame Playlist: Pro Soccer Player Christie Rampone Chills Out With Country

By David Heim--

(CBS Local) A good chunk of the U.S. women's national team hails from New Jersey, but defender Christie Rampone might fit the term "Jersey girl" best, at least when it comes to her music.

"Growing up in New Jersey — Jersey girl — of course it was Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi, but I also love anything that's like upbeat and I'm a little on the country side as well," Rampone said.

What is the reason for her taste in country music? Rampone said the calming sense of country music helps get her mind right before games, when the adrenaline is already high.

"The music style I like when I'm in the locker room is a little pump up but I do love the chill music because there's enough adrenaline going and the nerves are going that I just don't want to get it overkill that I'm exhausted when I get on the field," Rampone said.

Music also helps Rampone get ready for soccer, particularly when she is working out.

"I like to listen to my body, hear my body, see how it's going," Rampone said. "Never have I worked out without any music and I think it's a mental thing which helps me translate onto the field."

Another influence on her musical style…is her kids.

"There's definitely a mix, they (kids) love Taylor Swift and Beyonce, Rihanna," Rampone said. "They love everything with a beat that they can dance to, as well as mom, but I always embarrass them because I always throw out my dance moves."

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