This summer, the University of Memphis men's soccer program transitions from Conference USA to the Big East; a critically important aspect of this passage into the new conference will be the play of standout forward Mark Sherrod. The Tigers junior ended the 2012 season with 12 goals and four assists earning his second straight C-USA Offensive Player of the Year award.
With Major League Soccer praise-worthy posts already published and with experience playing for the Portland Timbers U-23 squad, Sherrod appears capable of making the college-to-pro jump at the conclusion of his Memphis career.
The Knoxville native kindly spoke via phone yesterday with Football Friendlies about the scrimmage with FC Dallas, the balance between academics and athletics and the awesomeness of Jimmy Buffett.
1. You recently competed in a scrimmage with Major League Soccer side FC Dallas scoring a goal in the process. What did you take from the experience?
It was a great feeling, obviously, being able to score against professional players but our team didn't win which mattered most. Overall, an amazing experience, observing and learning from professionals.
2. How are you able to balance your academic and athletic responsibilities?
It's pretty tough, to be honest. You decide each day how to commit your time because after practice as soon as I come home it's straight to the books. It really is a balance between the two; I find it helps to work a nap in there.
3. What's your take on the team's move from Conference USA to the Big East starting July 1?
Conference USA has been amazing with some of the best teams in the country; three or four a year are invited to the NCAA Tournament. But the move to the Big East is huge and there are some top teams in the conference like UConn. It will be fun to travel to the schools; the competition alone will be worth it.
And three for fun:
4. Best off campus food/restaurant?
The Chinese Sub Shop [aka Super Submarine Sandwich Shop] is this great hole-in-the-wall place that makes the best sandwiches.
5. Playing on the iPod?
On the iPod, I have to be honest, it's Jimmy Buffett.
6. Player or club you supported growing up?
I still am a huge Arsenal fan. I always admired both Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp, two great Arsenal forwards.
More Six-a-side Spring 2013:
+ Spencer Richey - University of Washington
+ Magnus Thorsson - Winthrop University
Links:
1) TopDrawerSoccer.com (written by J.R. Eskilson & Travis Clark)
2) Official website of Memphis Athletics
3) Video link via SIDMemphis YouTube Channel.
4) FCDallas.com
5) Official website of Memphis Athletics
6) Mark Sherrod Twitter (@marksherrod2)
7) Yelp.com
Mark Sherrod 2012 highlight video via SIDMemphis YouTube Channel.
Photo Credit: University of Memphis Athletics Communications
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