Union Soccer Alumni Discuss College Soccer

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UNION, MO --High school graduation marks the end of organized sports for many athletes.  However, a relatively large number of Union High School soccer graduates have gone on to play soccer at the collegiate level. 

Prospective college players often ask the question “What’s soccer like in college?”  Former Union Varsity Captain Taylor Jokerst (Missouri Baptist University) and former All-Conference defender Amanda Zweifel (Southern Virginia University) recently took time to share some of their insight on collegiate soccer and more.

Here are a few common questions high school players ask and Jokerst’s/Zweifel’s responses:

What do you like about college soccer?

Jokerst:  The trips to away tournaments and games are a lot of fun.  I also enjoy the close friendships I’ve made.

Zweifel: I really enjoy the high level of competition and all of the memories that I’ve had while getting to make new friends with my teammates.

What are the general training requirements like in college?

Jokerst: You are expected to be in good shape on the first day of the preseason when the team first begins training for the season.  We typically play a lot of small-sided games with a soccer ball to enhance our physical fitness.

Zweifel:  In addition to Taylor's remarks, Zweifel stressed that players definitely should have a high level of intensity when it comes to training and game days. 

What advice do you have for high school players who want to play soccer in college?

Jokerst: Staying in shape during the offseason is really important.  Running regularly before the season starts is a good way to do that.

Zweifel: Be positive and believe in yourself.  Work hard in school and focus on your grades.

PHOTOS:

(TOP): Taylor Jokerst in MBU Spartan Blue. 

(BOTTOM): Amanda Zweifel plays the ball during her 2010 senior season at Union.