University of Minnesota Athletics
Freshman Spotlight: Haley Mennes
7/1/2016 12:00:00 AM | Soccer
The Gophers will welcome eight incoming freshman to the pitch for the 2016-17 season. Get to know the future of Minnesota soccer!
Haley Mennes of McLean, Va. will suit up in Maroon and Gold after training under Rob Bouchard and Mark Cascio for her freshman through junior Year at McLean High School. Mennes also played for FC Virginia ECNL. She is an AP student, vice president of her student council and member of the National Honor Society. Mennes was the top scorer for McLean High School in 2015. Haley is currently living in Seoul, South Korea for her senior year of high school and playing club soccer for Seoultus.
"Haley is a unique individual in that she brings a lot of the intangible qualities you look for, yet her soccer environment hasn't been consistent enough for her to really grow as much as she could have by this point," said Golan. "She is mature, focused, competitive, coachable and a natural leader. Her dad happens to be a General in the Army, so the family has moved quite a bit and her soccer environment has changed a lot through those moves. For us, we liked a lot of things about her, but we feel that when she gets into a consistent environment, her potential for growth is tremendous and we can't wait for her to be a Gopher."
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How did you first start playing soccer?
I started playing soccer when I was four and never stopped. When I was little, the only way my mom could get me to play was by telling me I couldn't have the team snack afterwards if I didn't participate. Over the years my love for the game surpassed my love for snacks!
Did you play any other sports growing up?
I did! I played volleyball, lacrosse, basketball, ran track, and figure skated.
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota?
The University of Minnesota has everything I want in a school. Being a part of the Big Ten Conference, I'll be put in an incredibly competitive atmosphere where I will be pushed and tested to the limit. Along with having an amazing coaching staff and team, I couldn't ask for more. Minnesota also has a wide variety of majors in the engineering and architectural fields, which I'm interested in, giving me the flexibility to find what I truly want to study.
Have you chosen a major or a specific area of study?
I am leaning toward civil engineering.
What do you like to do in your free time when you're not playing soccer?
I like to paint and draw, play the guitar, as well as hang out with my family, friends, and my dog.
What are you most looking forward to as a UMN soccer player?
Being in an environment where I am able to improve alongside my teammates in a place where everyone is 100% committed to the same goals.
Who was your athletic role model growing up?
My dad. Growing up we would play sports as a family and he was always so good at them, so when I was little I strived to be as good as he was.
What's your favorite part about playing soccer?
Being a part of something bigger than just myself. Watching hard work pay off on the field with your teammates and the community and friendships that are fostered through it.
What type of music most pumps you up for games?
Whatever music is pumping up everyone around me normally pumps me up as well. Anything that has an upbeat feel!
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I always wear my hair in a braid for games.
