10 SECONDS

By Justin Siewierski; Editor-in-Chief

On November 3, 2016

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10 SECONDS

Justin Siewierski

Editor-In-Chief

js2010@plymouth.edu

One of the most important positions on the field controls the pace of the game. They are

the distributor, the first defender, and the ones to clean up the mess. The center midfielder for Plymouth State’s women’s soccer team isn’t going anywhere, however, as Kate Martin is only just getting started.

The sophomore from Keene has scored nine points so far this season, with four goals and an assist. Currently a Biology major, her hopes are to attend a Prosthetics and Orthotics program in the future. On the field, Kate has played the midfield position to perfection, keeping the offense alive when needed and marking up on defense. This week, I had the pleasure of talking to Kate Martin for the week’s installment of 10 Seconds.

When did you first start playing soccer?

I firststartedplayingsoccerwhen I was four years old. I’m from a very small town outside of Keene so in order to form a team everyone had to play. I grew up playing with the same girls from the age of four up until now.

What's been your biggest influence?

My biggest influence definitely has to be my family. I have an older brother and an athletic dad so I grew up playing sports in my backyard which is probably why I play a more physical game. My parents are also extremely supportive and have gone to almost every one of my games since I can remember.

You're halfway through your collegiate career. Nine points (and counting) so far this season, how comfortable do you feel at the midfield for your team?

I can’t believe my college soccer career is halfway over already! I feel very comfortable at midfield because I know I have a reliable back line behind me and a talented offense in front of me. Everyone on our team seems to understand their role and I truly love my position at center midfield.

How was the transition from high school soccer to collegiate soccer for you?

The transition was really intense at first because I was not used to the speed of play in the middle. Luckily I’ve had encouraging upperclassmen that gave me a chance and reminded me to pick my head up in the middle and relax when I got the ball.

If you were to give your team a letter grade this season, what would it be?

I would give our team an A. We all knew the fitness standards had risen this year so during tryouts everyone came prepared and was in much better shape than previous years. This year we were able to keep a long shut out streak, ha ve had injuries, and adv anced to final game. Also this year we have been able to hold our own against tough opponents, yet also have a lot of fun and make getting up for 7a.m. practices totally worth it.

How have this year's seniors help you progress as a player? What can you take away from them?

I really wish this year’s seniors never had to graduate! They all add a different component to the team which brings us all together. Our captains Leah [Swanson] and [Annaliese] Schmidt will be greatly missed. I look up to Leah and Schmidt because Schmidt gets me motivated for the games, while Leah keeps me dialed in and focused.

What's been your favorite soccer moment at PSU so far?

This year during the Bridgewater State game I was able to play without my knee brace for the first time in two years. I tore my PCL during my senior year and have been rehabbing it ever since so it was freeing to go back to my old self. It had been a long time since I had been that excited for a game. Taking my brace off felt like turning the page.

You grew up in Plymouth's rival town of Keene. Why did you choose Plymouth State?

I never applied to Keene State or even considered going there. I knew I wanted to go somewhere outside of my town and my brother already went to PSU so it felt like home to me. I also love to be outside hiking, skiing, and biking so Plymouth has been the perfect fit so far.

What's been your "welcome to soccer" moment?

I realized soccer was my sport during my sophomore year of high school. I grew up playing soccer, basketball, and lacrosse, but basketball had always been my favorite. After a negative sophomore basketball season I stopped playing and began to focus on soccer. I started playing club soccer my junior year and realized I wasn’t ready to stop playing.