There aren't many couples in the sports world that can match the firepower of Super Bowl champion Zach Ertz and two-time World Cup champion Julie Ertz, that's for sure.
Zach met Julie when they were in college. At that time, he was on Stanford's football team. Julie, on the other hand, was playing soccer for Santa Clara University. In 2013, they decided to explore a long-distance relationship. That turned out to be a wise move on their part.
In 2017, Zach and Julie got married in Santa Barbara, California. Five years later, they welcomed their first child into the world, Madden Matthew. In August of 2024, the Ertz family expanded in a major way. The power couple welcomed twins Kace and Kyren.
Even though Zach and Julie have dealt with hectic schedules on and off the field, they've managed to make things work. In honor of Valentine's Day, they teamed up with Russell Stover in a partnership that'll send one lucky couple to the Super Bowl in 2026.
We caught up with the Ertz family to discuss their latest collaboration and some of their fondest memories.
The Spun: Can you tell us about your partnership with Russell Stover and what makes it a great fit?
Zach Ertz: For us, Russell Stover has been a staple for our Valentine’s Day relationship. When Russell Stover reached out, we were ecstatic. February has always been about Valentine’s Day and the Super Bowl. Russell Stover has played a huge role in the Valentine’s Day piece, and now they’re going to play a huge part in sending a couple to the big game next year. What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than that. Couples can go to www.RussellStover.com/Valentines for a chance to win the sweepstakes
The Spun: Have your Valentine’s Day plans changed since becoming parents?
Julie: I would say drastically. We look forward to it a little bit more though in a sense of being able to reconnect and focus on each other. We also enjoy finding new restaurants in the area.
The Spun: Zach, you’ve already said you’ll continue playing football next season. At this stage in your career, are you approaching your career on a year-to-year basis?
Zach: Realistically, I can play three or four years more. At this time though, it’s a year-to-year thing. My faith is a big part in my life, so I ask for guidance every year in that regard. I’m not going to play just to say I made it to 15 years or whatever. For me, it’s about loving the process and loving what I do. This past season I felt rejuvenated with the culture that Dan Quinn. Obviously, Jayden Daniels is a great quarterback. It was fun to show that I can still make an impact - on and off the field. I do love the process and I’d love the opportunity to go back to Washington - they know how I feel.
The Spun: Julie, what would you say is the best environment you’ve experienced in your career?
Julie: Internationally, there are so many cool spots. We love the Premier League. When Zach played there in England, we got to stay a little bit extra so I got to show European soccer to him. I feel like the huge boom in women’s soccer has made the environments stateside awesome. I feel like it’s been absolutely incredible to see. Every new stadium that’s being built is trying to top the last one that was built.
The Spun: Julie, what’s your confidence level in the current USWNT?
Julie: I feel like the confidence level has to be at an all-time high. They won the Olympic with a young group. That experience is going to help some of the players build confidence. Also, winning the Olympics is really hard. You’re playing every third day due to the setup. During the World Cup, you have a bit more time. I know all the other countries are developing their talent, but I love the mix between athleticism and skill that Emma Hayes is implementing with the U.S. I think the confidence is very high.
The Spun: Since it's Valentine's Day, do you have any relationship advice you would like to share with everyone?
Zach: For me, it’s being intentional. It’s not just about Valentine’s Day. It’s about making sure you have intention behind making your loved one feel special. The listing things go a long way, like getting a box of Russell Stover chocolates or sending a nice text. There are so many things in life that try to pull us apart, so it’s important to focus on your relationship.
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You can read more of our interviews with athletes and media stars here.
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