After a hard-earned triumph over Fordham University on Sunday, the players of the Hofstra Women’s Soccer Team have been kicking and sliding their way into a great season! As the team continues their stride toward victory, students of Hofstra University come together in high hopes of cheering them on throughout their success.
In a recent interview with senior and captain Chloe Dale, we discovered what it’s really like to be a student athlete on such a motivated and driven team. Although we may not be able to run a mile in her cleats, our quick Q&A with Dale helped us realize how the players that we know and support may be shooting for goals greater than those on the field.
Hometown: Birmingham, England
Major/Minor: PR/Fine Arts
Year: Senior
Position: Defensive Midfield
When and how did you start playing soccer?CHLOE: At around the age of 6. I used to live at the back of a park so I would always play with my dad, brother and cousins. We’d start playing in the garden and my mum would send us to the field so we didn’t break any plant pots!
Were you nervous leaving your home in England to come to the U.S. for college?CHLOE: Yes, it was quite a daunting experience hopping on the plane. But, at the end of the day, there was no way I was going to turn down the chance to live in New York and play soccer, whilst continuing my education. It was an amazing opportunity and I’m delighted I came to Hofstra.
What is your favorite thing to do outside soccer?CHLOE: I love spending time in NYC. It doesn’t matter what I do, just being there makes me happy. The place never gets old. Cycling round Central Park was a good laugh and I like looking around the art museums.
What is the first thing you’d like someone to know about you?CHLOE: That’s a tricky one! Probably that I’m easy going and always up for an adventure!
As captain, how do you view yourself as a leader?CHLOE: I try to lead by example as much as I can. Being a captain certainly makes you step up your own game, as you want everyone to respect you and view you as a role model type figure. I’d like to think that I am an approachable person and someone who is willing to help my teammates in any way that I can.
What has been your favorite part about being a part of Hofstra’s Women’s Soccer Team?CHLOE: Definitely winning the championship in 2012. It was a fantastic feeling and one I hope to experience again this season!
What has been the most challenging part during your time as a student athlete?CHLOE: It’s sometimes tough to balance the workload from classes alongside training, travelling, and games. However, most professors are very understanding of the commitment and our coaches fully support us with our academics.
What has been the most rewarding part for you throughout this whole process?CHLOE: The best feeling is getting two wins in a weekend after a week of training. We practice all week to prepare for the games and then to be rewarded with the wins, that’s very rewarding!
After you graduate, what do you hope to pursue?CHLOE: I hope to go into a media related job. I’d like to work at a TV show and help with the production/PR/social media. I’d love to be a part of any type of show either daytime or late night.
What will you miss the most about playing for Hofstra’s team?CHLOE: Probably travelling with my teammates on away games. I love going to different states and playing on beautiful campuses. It’s always great spending time with my teammates and we always have a laugh on the journeys and at the hotels. It’s all been such a great experience and I will miss every aspect!