University of Minnesota forward Taylor Uhl ended 2012 with 51 points, 21 goals scored and nine assists. Sporting an impressive arsenal of attacking skills, the third team All-American (NSCAA) and first team All-Big Ten member earned a place in the discussion as possibly the nation's top collegiate soccer player.
Naturally, if Football Friendlies lists Uhl among the upper echelon of college soccer it's only proper that the sophomore kick off the women's side of the interview series.
The native of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, kindly spoke yesterday via email about improving her game, what motivates her as the upcoming season nears and where to find the best food in Minneapolis.
1. Over the last two years, you enjoyed a run of 11 consecutive games with a point scored and nine consecutive with a goal. Were the streaks something that you mentally kept a tab on?
I wasn't aware of the streak until it had accumulated to 8-9 games. After I found out, I definitely wanted to keep it going, but during the game, this was not in the forefront of my thoughts. I focused more on how to help the team to win.
2. Heading into your junior campaign, what's an area of your game that you will give additional attention to?
I'd like to improve my long-range goal scoring. This past season, most of my goals were scored off breakaways, or shots inside 10 yards. Becoming dangerous from 20-25 yards would add another dimension to my game. Also, I would like to see our team improve on our crossing which would naturally result in more goals off crosses for myself and the team.
3. After a heartbreaking end to the season, how often do you still reflect on the game?
I think about the game against Illinois in the Big Ten Tournament a lot. Being up 2-0, and then to lose on PKs was pretty tough to take in at the time. When I think about the game now, I think more about how I never want to end a season like that again. It serves as motivation.
And three for fun:
4. Best off campus food/restaurant?
I'm a big fan of Shuang Cheng. I get the beef fried rice.
5. What's playing on the iPod?
I like all kinds of music, but currently I'm really into Michael Bublé, Gavin DeGraw, and Adele.
6. Player or club you supported growing up?
Fernando Torres is my favorite soccer player, and I cheer for whichever club he is at. I have a Torres Liverpool jersey and recently updated to his Chelsea uniform.
Read more Six-a-side Spring 2013 interviews.
Links:
1) GopherSports.com, the official site of Minnesota Athletics
2) Video link via University of Minnesota Athletic Department YouTube Channel.
3) GopherSports.com, the official site of Minnesota Athletics
4) Shuang Cheng Restaurant 1320 Fourth Street South East Minneapolis
Fernando Torres Samsung Commercial 2013 video via emitertv YouTube Channel.
Photo Credit: Christopher Mitchell courtesy of University of Minnesota Athletics
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