Written by Julia Baribeau '17

SANTA CLARA, Calif.- Junior Ryan Masch (RM) of the men's soccer team spoke with Santa Clara Broncos (SCB) about his season thus far after coming back from an injury last season.

SCB: What was it like scoring the game-winning goal against Portland?

RM: It is always a great feeling to score a game winner no matter what game it is for but to score against Portland is always particularly satisfying. Every time we play Portland the games are extremely close. It also feels good to get a win against some of my good friends who play for Portland.

SCB: What has been the best game so far this season and why?

RM:  I think Maryland at Maryland has been the best game so far this season because they are not only a top team in the country but also the environment at the game was something that every aspiring soccer player loves. There were 2,300 fans in attendance.

SCB: How does it feel being an upperclassman on the team?

RM: It is strange to think about how quickly it has come but it is a good feeling to have more responsibility and leadership on the team.

SCB: What is one thing that playing soccer at Santa Clara has taught you?

RM: Santa Clara soccer has taught me to continue to push forward. There are always going to be ups and downs but the way you react to the situation says a lot about yourself and will determine the success of the team. 

SCB: What is one goal you have for the rest of your season?

RM: My goal for the rest of the season is to win the rest of our conference games and take the team to the NCAA Tournament. 

SCB: After missing last season due to injury, what are you most enjoying this year?

RM: Just playing again. It's why I am here and it's what I love to do, every opportunity to step on the pitch and represent the university is a privilege.