Oct. 18, 2007

SPARTANBURG, S.C. - Caroline Verna has had several different roles since joining the USC Upstate women's soccer team. In 2006, Verna spent time at the midfield and forward positions and was second on the team in goals with four and assisted on two more. Now in 2007, her senior season, she has taken on new roles including moving to defender and being a leader on an Upstate team that has nine freshmen this season. Verna also left her mark in the Upstate record book earlier this season when she became just the fourth player in program to score a penalty kick goal against Alabama State on Sept. 9.

Recently, Verna sat down with Adam Walker of upstatespartans.com to talk about living just outside of New York City, the outdoors and the city of Spartanburg.

US.com: How has the transition from Division II to Division I been for the women's soccer team?
Caroline Verna: (Division I) is a faster pace and the players are more fit. The competition is definitely at a higher level and I think getting used to the speed of play has been the hardest thing for the team.

US.com: You moved from midfielder/forward to defender this season. Do you miss getting those goal scoring opportunities?
CV: Yes. I do, but whatever needs to be done to help the team out, I'm willing to do. So, it's okay with me.

US.com: It has been said that you are one of the most versatile women's soccer players on the team since you can play three different positions. Have you had any thoughts about playing at goalkeeper?
CV: I have in high school, but since we have a great keeper in Samantha (Spradley), I don't think they would need me in goal. But I wouldn't mind playing keeper if they asked me to.

US.com: Your hometown of Glen Oaks, N.Y., is 20 miles from New York City. What is it like growing up in a heavily populated area?
CV: I love New York City because there is transportation available for you. You can get on a bus and go wherever you want to and that makes it easier. The city never sleeps and I like it.

US.com: Is Spartanburg a breath of fresh air compared to your hometown?
CV: Being in Spartanburg, every thing is at a slower pace and I like that. Here, you can relax a little more compared to living outside of New York City.

US.com: You like to go mountain biking and hiking. What is it about the outdoors that appeals to you?
CV: One of my coaches back home used to do mountain biking and hiking and he took me one day. I really fell in love with those things. I love things in nature and I like kayaking as well. It's kind of like fitness and I enjoy that.

US.com: There are nine freshmen on this season's team. Did you take it upon yourself to be a leader since you are only one of two seniors on the team?
CV: I did because they need a role model and since I have a lot of experience playing in junior college (at Bryant and Stratton) and coming here last year, I wanted them to learn from me. I've told them about my experiences so they won't make some of the same mistakes I did when I was a freshman.

US.com: What is it like playing for head coach Kendall Reyes?
CV: Coach is a cool dude. I've learned a lot from him and I respect him a lot. He's done a lot for me and it's definitely good playing for him. I wish I had another two years so I could play for him more.

US.com: Why did you decide to come to Upstate?
CV: The weather and the people. Everyone is nice and friendly including the faculty. It's fun being here.

US.com: Since this is your senior season, what will you take with you from playing women's soccer as part of your experience at Upstate?
CV: I'm going to remember the team cohesiveness. The fun we had on the road, the tough times, the times we've struggled, the wins and losses, and the stuff I've learned playing soccer. I've also learned a lot from my teammates and coaches and those times have been great.