The Player Perspective
Hear from our student-athletes on what it's like to be a Hawkeye
How do you stay on top of both academics and athletics?
"Staying on top of athletics is the easy part. I’ve trained hard for so many years that it’s easy to go week by week following the same workout routine. Balancing both academics and athletics can be tough, but there are numerous resources available that help me stay on top of all my schoolwork - whether that’s open hours, study sessions, or tutoring!"
What stands out about being part of Iowa's culture?
"What stands out to me about being part of Iowa’s culture is the sense of unity and team spirit. At Iowa, whether it’s on campus or within the soccer team, everyone pushes each other to succeed and takes pride in representing the University of Iowa. On the soccer team, our identity is shown by how hardworking and gritty we are. The team is uplifting and supportive, while still holding each other to a high standard. At Iowa, there are so many opportunities to grow and thrive, not only as a player, but also as a person."
What does a typical day as a student-athlete look like?
“My typical day as a student-athlete at Iowa looks like this…I start the day off right with lift and practice. After practice, we’ll go through game film and eat breakfast together! We’ll then recover and rehab with our awesome athletic trainer, Jessica, and head home and get ready for classes. After all classes are finished, I’ll hangout with some fellow teammates/best friends and have dinner! I’ll then finish up homework, watch film, and get ready for bed."
How do the coaches support you on and off the field?
“The coaches care about me both as a person and a player. They check in individually with each of us every week to understand how we’re doing on and off the field. They help me break down film from past matches, which has really improved my game. I also get to discuss my personal soccer goals with them, and they work with me to create detailed action plans. Whether it’s staying after practice for extra training or just being available to talk, the coaches here go above and beyond. They’re personable, growth-minded, and genuinely interested in every player’s development. Their support has made a big difference in my progress and confidence."
What does competing in the Big Ten mean for you?
"Competing in the Big Ten has given me the opportunity to play the sport I love in one of the most competitive conferences. Along the way, I’ve built lifelong friendships with incredibly talented teammates who have become some of my best friends. This experience has allowed me to grow personally, develop valuable skills like time management, organization, leadership, and dedication. The competitive environment has pushed me to work harder, stay disciplined, and embrace challenges while also teaching me lessons in resilience and teamwork. I’m grateful for the growth I’ve experienced both on and off the field."
How do you feel you've grown as a player and person?
“Iowa has pushed me to grow as a player by focusing on the day-to-day details and consistency, which has given me the confidence to perform in big games. The culture here is like no other. I’ve gained lifelong friends who make this program feel like family.”
