Do you have a most memorable goal?
I’ve actually been asked that before, and I don’t have a most memorable goal. But it’s different, because the goals you score on Friday nights at Merlo are just, if it’s a toe poke or a nice curler into the corner, the fans make the experience. It really doesn’t matter how you score or how it happens, you’re just so relieved. The fans are cheering, and you’re like “yes, the job is done.”
Do you have a most memorable, or favorite, win?
Last year we played Washington State in the playoffs at home. I actually didn’t take a PK, because I’m very afraid to take PKs, I missed one in high school and I haven’t taken one since. I was about to be the 10th person to take one, but Dees, our keeper, saved it. And it was so fun to watch, and be a part of, and to hear the crowd get into it and everything. That was definitely the most memorable game for me. And for Dees probably too.
Would you mind telling the story of when you missed the PK in high school?
It was some silly game, I don’t even think it was important. I had been fouled in the box, and I had always taken the PK’s for my team, because I was usually the one that got fouled. So I was like, “Okay I’m gonna go take it,” but I was kinda so tired and I kicked it right to the keeper. (Laughs) And I was like, “I’m so embarrassed right now.” And I actually think we ended up losing the game, and I felt terrible. It’s a lot of pressure. If I ever missed a PK, and had to graduate and lost a playoff game because of it, I don’t know if I could live with myself.
What are your plans after UP?
I have no idea. I’m working and doing my practicum at an adult day center right now at the Marie Smith Center. It’s just a cool atmosphere, and they need a lot of people to go in to gerontology. I feel like a lot of people forget about older adults, so I love the chance to get to work with them throughout the year. Social work is a big part of my life right now.
What are some causes or nonprofits that are especially close to you?
I really enjoy Ronald McDonald House, which is something a person in my (social work) program got us involved in. There are so many small things you can do for people that build up to larger things. My parents have boarding houses and work with the (developmentally disabled), so I’ve gotten the chance to get to know that community, too. There’s so many different ways that life could take me, and so many people who need help, that it’s really hard for me to choose right now. The Marie Smith Center and Volunteers for America is awesome.
How are you feeling about going into your senior season?
I’m so excited because I feel like we have so much potential. We’re barely beating teams by 2-1, 3-2, barely just scraping by, but we have so many chances on goal. We could easily win these games 5-1, or 5-0. We’re so close to being that little bit of extra good that I’m so excited for the rest of the season. I think the San Diego State game was a turning point for us. Last season we would have lost that game to San Diego State instead of pulling out the win. We have so much potential to score and be a really, really good team.
