University of Minnesota Athletics
Freshman Spotlight: Taylor Beitz
7/15/2016 12:00:00 AM | Soccer
Eight freshmen are set to join the Gophers for the 2016-17 season. Get to know incoming Maroon & Gold goalkeeper Taylor Beitz!
Beitz, a Cornwall, Ont. Native, joins Minnesota from the Ottawa South United of the Ontario Youth Soccer League. Beitz has been coached by Dominic Oliveri, Tania Singfield, David Bellemare and Jeff Gibbs. She also trains with the Golden Gloves Academy and Gibbs Training System for strength and conditioning. She has been a part of the Ontario provincial program, an Ontario Cup Finalist, ERSL Champion, EOSSA Champion and a part of the Ottawa Showcase of Champions.
"Taylor is a very talented goalkeeper with a relentless work rate," said Golan. "She sets a high standard, is competitive and she consistently seeks feedback on how to improve herself. She is technical, athletic and has a fantastic mentality. We are excited about the corps of keepers she is joining and that corps will be better with Taylor coming on board."
How did you first start playing soccer?
I first started playing soccer when I was 4 at my local Kinsmen soccer fields in Cornwall. I started off as a striker (and I was pretty good), but at the age 12 my team was in a tournament and our goalkeeper got hurt so I volunteered to go in net. I stayed in for the rest of the tournament and we ended up winning in PKs. Since then I haven't stepped out of the net and I absolutely fell in love with the position.
Did you play any other sports growing up?
Growing up I played a lot of sports - I was constantly keeping myself busy. When I wasn't playing soccer I played a lot of basketball, volleyball, badminton, and ran track & field.
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota?
I chose the U of M because it's where I see myself developing the most on the field, in the classroom, and as a person. The moment I stepped foot on campus, I knew it was where I wanted to be. I saw myself fitting in very well with the culture of the team and with the standard of excellence that the girls on the team and the coaches set for everyone. It was a perfect choice for me.
Have you chosen a major or a specific area of study?
I applied as undecided, but I'm leaning towards Kinesiology.
What do you like to do in your free time when you're not playing soccer?
When I'm not playing soccer I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I also love going out and giving back to my community, whether that be by coaching minor soccer, volunteering my time, or spending time with people who have special needs.
What are you most looking forward to as a UMN soccer player?
What I am most looking forward to as a UMN soccer player is carrying on the traditions that past players have created, while creating my own legacy. I'm really looking forward to making so many memories. My goal is to have an impact on Minnesota Soccer and leave the program better than it was when I get there. I am so excited to see where UMN soccer goes in my years at the U, and for many years to come.
Who was your athletic role model growing up?
Growing up my athletic role model was Hope Solo. Being Canadian I do look up to our National Team goalkeepers (Erin McLeod and Steph Labbé), but in studying my position I have more of a Hope Solo style and that's why I look up to her.
What's your favorite part about playing soccer?
My favourite part about playing soccer and specifically my position is the pressure. As a goalkeeper you can't make a mistake and if you do, it could result in a goal. Being a goalkeeper comes with a lot of responsibility, but I feel that I thrive the most under pressure and that's why I love it so much.
What type of music most pumps you up for games?
Songs that have a high tempo and good beats in it. I like all genres of music, so if the song is good, I'll probably be listening to it before games.
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
My pre-game ritual is that I always put my gear on the right side on first. I'll also try something new before games and if I have a good game then I'll stick with it, and if I have a bad game I'll change it up!
