:10 Seconds With Aisha Rai Thompson

Senior defender Aisha Rai Thompson is one of three captains for Plymouth's field hockey team that is currently riding a three-game winning streak. Thompson, who has started in every single game since her first year playing for the Panthers, looks to lead PSU to their first Little East Conference post-season championship since 2002. I got the chance to chat with Thompson about the success the field hockey team has had over the four years since she has been here, what her most memorable field hockey moment is, and how the team looks for the remainder of the 2013 season.

1.How long have you been playing field hockey for?

A.T.- I have been playing field hockey since the 4th grade

2.How does the field hockey team look for the remainder of this year?

A.T.- The team looks great for the remainder of the year. We still have a lot to work on, but we're making great progress and will be prepared for post season.

3.What is your most memorable moment in your field hockey career?

A.T.- My most memorable moment was my sophomore year in our semi-final game against UMass Dartmouth. We won in over time, I got a break away and passed up to Jackie Morin who then dodged the goalie and scored sending us to the LEC championship.

4. Do you have any superstitions on game-day?

A.T.- I don't have "superstitions", but I do put my equipment on a certain way, I put all my equipment on first on the right leg/foot then the left leg/foot.

5. What was your "Welcome to Plymouth" moment in field hockey?

A.T.- My welcome to Plymouth moment with field hockey was just how welcoming all of my teammates were. 

6. Your team was picked to finish third according to the coaches within the LEC. Does the team see this at motivation to become even better, or that they are getting respect within the conference?

A.T.- We definitely take this as motivation. We want to prove everyone in the conference wrong and I believe we will.

7. You got your first goal of the season last Tuesday against NEC. Being a defender, what does this mean to help contribute to the offense?

A.T.- The offense has defiantly been working hard and has been successful, I was just happy that I could contribute in that way other than just defending the other teams offense. 

8. What has lead to this team being so successful since you came to Plymouth?

A.T.- We are a very close program; all of my best friends are on the team. I think our chemistry and closeness really helps us work together on the field. 

9. The overall offense of the team has picked up over the past three games. Knowing this, how has it effected how you have played over the past few games?

A.T.- Every goal we score fuels our adrenaline to get another one.

10. Since you have been at PSU, this team has reached the LEC semifinals or final all three years, but hasn't been able to capture that elusive title. What makes this year different?

A.T.- This year is different because it is my last. Hilary, Jackie, LC and I all want to win our last time around. This is our last opportunity to every win a sports title and we will stop at nothing to reach that goal!