Written by Brendan Weber '16
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Kellie Peay (KP), a freshman defender from Phoenix, Ariz., was immediately inserted into the Bronco's backline from day one of the season. Santa Clara Broncos (SCB) spoke with Peay to talk about her transition to the collegiate game and her experiences on the pitch so far during her freshman season.
SCB: How has your transition between high school soccer and college soccer gone so far? What's different about the college game compared to high school?
KP: The transition was difficult at first but I have finally seemed to get the hang of it. College soccer has so much more of a faster pace than high school or even club soccer has, especially at a Division I level, but that is what makes it all the more exciting. Also, being a freshman, you are potentially playing against girls who are in their 20's which is crazy to think about as an 18-year-old. The game is so much different than in the past because the best of the best compete against each other every game, and as much hard work as it is, it is so rewarding to be on such an incredible and competitive team.
SCB: What are some of the most important lessons that you have learned from your coaches and fellow teammates this season?
KP: Some of the lessons I have learned from the coaching staff and my teammates coming in as a freshman have really benefitted me throughout this first year. The main ones that stick with me have been to not be afraid to make mistakes, be confident, and play every game with determination to win. Also, we have five core values that we cherish within our program which also have been great lessons and guidelines to learn by.
SCB: As a central defender, you are the last line of defense besides the goalkeeper. How do the deal with the stress and challenges that come along with playing this position?
KP: I don't think of it as stress as much as I feel like it is a crucial role that I have been very happy to be put in. Some people may think that defense isn't that exciting because you don't get to score goals or do cool tricks on people or something of that sort, but it is very cool in its own way. Yes, it gets a little chaotic when there are numerous girls around the penalty box passing around you trying to get a shot off, but it is so relieving and exciting when you win a tackle or block a shot. Also, we have two outstanding goalkeepers that always have our backs in these times, especially in the times where communication is key. Communication alone is one of the main keys to having a successful backline and I think our team does a good job of that.
SCB: What has been your favorite Santa Clara soccer moment so far?
KP: My favorite SCU moment so far has been when we beat Long Beach State in the last 40 seconds of the game. That game was a very crucial game for us because we really needed a win and the way the team stepped up during that game was phenomenal. We really grew as a group that day and realized that we have a lot of heart and grit and that alone will take us far.
SCB: Away from the pitch and outside of the classroom, what do you like to do in your free time?
KP: Besides soccer and training, I really like to hang out with my teammates and watch Netflix. Hanging out with the team away from soccer is always really nice because we get to relax from the hard work and just be with each other which I always really enjoy.
