Oct. 28, 2004

Q. On September 12th the team played #9 Florida to a tie. How does the result of that game indicate what the Tigers are capable of this year?
A. I think that game was a great indication of the potential the team has this year. Florida is a very good team, and that game proved that we can play with some of the nation's best. We played hard and aggressive for more than 90 minutes. It showed what type of team we can be this year.

Q. That weekend you were in a battle with bronchitis. How hard was it to play through the illness?
A. It was definitely hard to play through sickness and play to my potential, but my teammates played extremely well and were very encouraging.

Q. Is toughness a major part of your game?
A. Toughness is a requirement for everyone in Division I soccer. The team cannot just be tough during games. We have to bring our best effort to every practice.

Q. You were able to step in and contribute to the team right away as a freshman last year. To what do you attribute such early playing time?
A. I think my playing time can be attributed to hard work and practice. By playing against great players every day in practice, I began to grow as a player and compete at a higher level.

Q. You're able to play several different positions. How important is your versatility to the team?
A. Playing soccer at several different levels taught me the importance of versatility. I can play wherever the team needs me to step in and help.

Q. What are the biggest similarities between this year's team and last year's?
A. We were a very close group last year, and we still are a very close team.

Q. What are the biggest differences?
A. We really miss some of last year's seniors. However, we also have several new girls that have been able to make an immediate impact on our team.

Q. What do you expect from the team this year?
A. I expect great things. We have been working hard and the team has a lot of potential.

Q. What kind of season do you expect from yourself?
A. I hope to continue to improve as a player, so that I can have a positive impact on the team and work with my team members to have a successful season.

Q. Finally, your brother Jon played soccer for Miami of Ohio. Has soccer always played a large role in your family's life?
A. Soccer has always been a big part of my family's life. Growing up, I loved going to my brother's games. I always looked up to him, and I still go to him for soccer advice. My family has always been very supportive, and I love it when they're able to come to our games.