Updated: December 1, 2025
Hey there, sports fans and romantics alike! If you’ve ever wondered about the powerhouse couple behind some of America’s biggest athletic triumphs, let’s dive into the world of Julie Ertz’s husband, Zach Ertz. As a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and a retired soccer icon, Julie Ertz has inspired millions. But off the field, her rock-solid partnership with NFL tight end Zach Ertz is the real MVP story. From long-distance heartaches to welcoming a growing family, their journey screams resilience and love. Stick around as we unpack their fairy-tale romance, family life, and more—because who doesn’t love a good sports love story?
Table of Contents
How Zach and Julie Ertz First Met: Sparks at a Stanford Baseball Game
Picture this: It’s 2012, and the sun’s shining on a casual Stanford University baseball game. Zach, the star football quarterback for the Cardinal, bumps into Julie through mutual friends. She’s a rising soccer sensation at nearby Santa Clara University, full of fire and determination. What started as easy banter quickly turned into something electric.
From that moment, their connection was undeniable. Zach was drafted into the NFL shortly after, kicking off a long-distance chapter that tested their budding romance. But as Julie once shared in a heartfelt interview, “We made it work because we knew it was real.” Fast-forward through late-night calls and surprise visits, and by 2013, they were officially a couple. It’s the kind of meet-cute that makes you believe in destiny—two athletes chasing dreams, finding their perfect teammate in each other.
Their Beautiful Wedding and Shared NFL-Soccer Glory Days
Fast-forward to March 26, 2017: Zach and Julie tied the knot in a stunning ceremony at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. Surrounded by 250 guests, including fellow USWNT stars like Alex Morgan, the day was pure magic—elegant florals, heartfelt vows, and a nod to their faith-filled lives. Julie walked down the aisle in a lace gown that screamed timeless romance, while Zach couldn’t stop grinning in his classic tux.
Their early married years were a whirlwind of gridiron and pitch triumphs. Zach helped the Philadelphia Eagles soar to Super Bowl LII victory in 2018, with Julie cheering from afar during her own international duties—her viral reaction to his win still gives me chills! Meanwhile, Julie dominated with the USWNT, clinching World Cups in 2015 and 2019. Balancing careers meant sacrifices, but as Zach reflected recently, “She’s my biggest supporter, and I’m hers—through every touchdown and goal.” It’s no wonder fans adore this dynamic duo.
Building a Family: From Madden to Twin Miracles
Nothing tugs at the heartstrings quite like the Ertz family’s growth. In April 2022, Julie announced their first pregnancy with an adorable Instagram snap of Zach kissing her bump—captioned with a Bible verse that captured their joyful faith. On August 11, 2022, little Madden Matthew arrived, bringing endless cuddles and chaos to their Arizona home.
But the surprises kept coming! In June 2024, they revealed they were expecting baby number two, only to shock the world in August with the arrival of twins Kace and Kyren. “Welcome to the world, Kace and Kyren! The Ertz boys #Twinning,” they posted alongside a sweet black-and-white photo. Now parents to three energetic boys under three, Zach and Julie are embracing the beautiful madness. Julie’s retirement from soccer in 2023 gave her more time for mom life, while Zach suits up for the Washington Commanders. Here’s a quick snapshot of their little squad:
| Family Member | Relation to Julie | Fun Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Zach Ertz | Husband | NFL tight end with 3x Pro Bowl nods; loves coaching youth sports. |
| Madden Matthew | Son (born Aug 2022) | Named after golf legend John Daly’s son; already a soccer ball magnet! |
| Kace Ertz | Twin Son (born Aug 2024) | The “calm one” per Julie’s updates—future goalie material? |
| Kyren Ertz | Twin Son (born Aug 2024) | Named with a nod to faith; Zach jokes he’s the “speedy” twin. |
- Parenting Pro Tip from Julie: “Involve the kids in everything—Valentine’s Day crafts with toddlers? Total game-changer!”
- Family Rituals: Weekly game nights and Bible studies keep their bond tight amid busy schedules.
- Challenges: Juggling twins and a toddler? They lean on faith and each other, proving teamwork wins.
Giving Back: The Ertz Family Foundation’s Impact
Beyond the highlights, Zach and Julie shine brightest in philanthropy. In 2018, they launched the Ertz Family Foundation, focusing on youth sports, education, and faith-based community support. Inspired by Zach’s Haiti mission trip, it’s all about empowering the next generation.
Key initiatives include:
- Score More n’ Feed More: For every Cardinals touchdown (pre-2023), they donated meals to fight hunger—over 500,000 served in Arizona alone!
- Youth Camps: Free soccer and football clinics for underprivileged kids, blending Julie’s and Zach’s passions.
- Global Reach: Partnerships with organizations advancing education in underserved areas.
As of 2025, their efforts have touched thousands, proving their legacy is as strong off-field as on. With a combined net worth topping $30 million from savvy endorsements and investments, they’re using it wisely to make a difference.
Conclusion: A Timeless Love in the Spotlight
Wrapping it up, Julie Ertz’s husband, Zach Ertz, isn’t just a Super Bowl champ—he’s the steady force behind one of sports’ most inspiring families. From that fateful baseball game to wrangling twin toddlers, their story reminds us that true partnership thrives on faith, fun, and facing the tough stuff together. As they navigate Zach’s 12th NFL season and Julie’s post-soccer adventures, one thing’s clear: the Ertz crew is just getting started. What’s your favorite part of their journey? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear! Until next time, keep cheering for the underdogs and the love stories that score big.