Amid all the political controversy over the host nation's human rights practices, I am excited about the Olympics. And one sport that I love to watch is women's soccer. Our ladies won the gold back at Athens in 2004, so hopefully these games will bring on more of the same. One Olympic hopeful, Tina Ellertson, 25, is redefining the term "soccer mom."

Soon-to-be mother of two (her second daughter is due in two months), Ellertson is currently on leave from the US national team, but still hopes to return in time for the 2008 Beijing Games. This means she is training during her pregnancy, but recently had to tone it down at her doctor's request.

Tina played for University of Washington for four years, after the birth of her first daughter MacKenzie, who is not only a fan but a soccer star in her own right. Ellertson is considered one of the fastest players in the league, which could come from trying to keep up with her 6-year-old daughter! Ellertson scored 42 goals during her four undergrad years (while earning a degree in economics – 3.5 GPA), but now plays defense.

I for one hope to see her on the field come August. As a mother of two, I am thoroughly impressed with her ability and focus.

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