University of Minnesota Athletics

Incoming Freshman, Emily Peterson

Freshman Spotlight: Emily Peterson

7/28/2015 12:00:00 AM | Soccer

July 28, 2015

Gophersports.com caught up with incoming freshman, Prior Lake, Minn. native, Emily Peterson about what she's most looking forward to this coming season both on and off the field.

How did you first start playing soccer?
I started playing soccer because my parents had signed my siblings and I up for in-house soccer as young kids to keep us active and engaged in the community. 

Did you play any other sports growing up?
Yes. I played soccer, basketball, baseball, ran track and gymnastics.

Why did you choose the University of Minnesota?
I chose the University of Minnesota mainly because it is close to home and I grew up knowing and cheering for the Gophers. I also chose this school because it has the majors I'm looking into, the great great team dynamics and coaching staff and because of the support the athletes are provided with.

Have you chosen a major or leaning towards a specific area of study?
I have not chosen a major yet. I am very interested in anatomy, so I'm thinking about possibly studying nursing. I also like math too, so maybe accounting. I hope to learn more about what I really like and would love to do with my life in this first year of college.  

What do you like to do in your free time when you're not playing soccer?
In my free time, I like to be out on the lake doing water sports. I live on a lake so it's nice to have a permanent playground right there in your own backyard. Spending time with friends and family and just relaxing are also great. 

What are you most looking forward to as a UMN soccer player?
I am really looking forward to being a part of a team of all ages and playing with players that can teach me a lot. I am also looking forward to having the support of the staff that will help me succeed in not only soccer, but in academics too. I can’t wait to represent my home state and grow as a person and a soccer player. 

Who was your athletic role model growing up?
I think any coach I have had throughout the years I would consider my athletic role models. My coach throughout high school, Danny Stolien, influenced me a lot and helped me improve as a soccer player a lot. He taught me what it takes to be a great. He knows a lot about soccer and is one of the most knowledgable coaches I have ever met. 

What's your favorite part about playing soccer?
One of my favorite parts about playing soccer is being a part of the team itself. I love knowing that my teammates always have my back and visa versa. The only way to win a soccer game is as a team. I also love the competitiveness of soccer and the how physical the game is. 

What type of music most pumps you up for games?
I like to listen to hip-hop and rap before games to pump me up. Sometimes though, I just prefer silence before games.

Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
No, I don’t have any pregame rituals.


What are you most excited about joining the four other players from around the Twin Cities you played on the Minnesota Thunder with?
I am excited to join the other four players from my club team at the U of M because we already feel comfortable around each other and will gel right away. I'm also excited because I know that they have my back and we will all be going through the same new experiences. I also helps that I know how they play so the chemistry will truly be out there on the field. 

Your uncle, John Guentzel, was a member of the Gopher football team. How does it feel to be another member of the family adding  to Gopher Athletics greatness?
It's pretty cool knowing that my uncle and I will represent the same school and state in the family; it's an honor to add to the family history in Gopher athletics. I hope that someday there will be more Peterson's or Guentzel's on the board for Gopher athletics and will also have an impact on the greatness.
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