By: Gabe Taylor '12

For Morgan Marlborough, her decision to transfer from Nebraska and join the Broncos in her final year of eligibility is worth the wait.

The Missouri native received discouraging news when she was notified that she would be required to sit out a season before suiting up at Buck Shaw stadium. But the disheartening information hasn't affected Marlborough's positive outlook.

"I absolutely love Santa Clara," said Marlborough. "My experience has been better than I could have ever imagined. The team and coaching staff has been more than welcoming and the relationships I am building are great."

The transition out West has enabled her to breakdown the style of play based on geographic location. 

"I think that the style of play is much more possession oriented out West," said Marlborough. "As far as competition, there are great teams all over the country."

Marlborough's list of accomplishments is one that jumps off the page. In 2009 & '10, she was named the Big 12 Rookie of the Year. That same year she captured the honor of being named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year. To add to her trophy case, she received the Big 12 OPY once again in her sophomore season.

The numbers show why.

In her time as a Cornhusker, Marlborough netted 59 goals – just eleven shy of Nebraska's all-time record. Sharing the ball just so happens to sit well with her too, as she has recorded 25 assists in her collegiate career thus far.

"My goals have always been team oriented," said Marlborough. "My ultimate goals are to win championships with my teammates while working hard and having fun. If the individual awards come then great, but my focus is on winning the WCC conference title and a national championship."

Come 2013, she will be fighting to achieve those goals.

Being unable to contribute in games for 2012 hasn't pushed her away from gaining more experience.

Marlborough is currently a member of the U.S. U23 national team.

"Playing under a variety of different coaches and with a diversity of players has really helped me improve my game," said Marlborough, whose eyes are set on playing professionally after her senior year.

A striker by all means of the word, Marlborough is focusing on enhancing the overarching aspects of her game.

"There are several areas I plan on working on both mentally and physically," said Marlborough. "I am putting in the work now so I can be the best player possible when I finally get the amazing opportunity to play for this team in my final season."