The cast was a bright red that clashed noticeably with the teal U.S. U17 Youth National team uniforms. It covered the entire right forearm of Rachel Price, a clear sign she wasn’t up to total health; maybe even an alibi for her if she didn’t play her best, or a sympathetic symbol.  

Or, not at all.

What the cast was, actually, was a battering ram that Price used to send messages and blows to the opposing team. The fact that the U.S. team was playing against an Irvine Strikers boys group mattered little, Price was the most physical player on the field, running down, and over Strikers at will.

That was back in March, and this week Price has returned to the Home Depot Center in Carson, CA, for the U15 Girls National Team Camp. The cast has been removed, and the broken wrist has long healed, but Price’s verve and fearlessness still leaves her sticking out every bit as much as any piece of mismatched arm weaponry.

“I had injured my wrist in high school season, but I feel really good now and I’m 100 percent healthy,” Price said. “I’m glad to be back and this team is actually coming together really well, bonding and playing as a team. We’re a pretty killer team now.”

And Price is a very valuable part of it. Prior to the team’s first scrimmage on Monday she was the player in the center of the huddle riling the team up with cheers and encouragement before it took the field.

When she’s on the pitch she’s hard not to watch. Her exceptional speed gets her anywhere, and at times, everywhere as she plays with a running motor. But it’s her willingness to compete, to throw her body in places while remaining vocal and reassuring with her teammates that makes her a special contributor. She plays the game the right way and seems to have the right idea about what it means to participate in national events.

“I like the leadership part of the team,” she said. “I go out there never wanting to let down anyone and to keep the team up and make sure that everyone on the field is fighting – not just one person.”

With national squad teammates like Melissa Bomberger, Katie Naughton, Morgan Andrews, Ashley Meier and Courtney Raetzman, Price doesn’t have to worry much about the effort around her. But just in case it lapses some, she’ll be there to deliver the needed kick in the U.S. jersey – whether that comes in the form of a cheer or a forearm.

“I want to hopefully get to the U17 Women’s World Cup (next year), and I need to improve my touch,” Price said. “But the most important thing and best part about being here is putting on that USA jersey and sharing the experience will all the girls out here. It’s special.”