June 14, 2010

BERKELEY - In just her first year as a collegiate student-athlete, freshman defender Rachel Clark quickly became a stalwart member of the California women's soccer team's back line. Starting 14 of Cal's 21 games and playing in 17, Clark played every minute of 12 full games. CalBears.com talked with Clark to get a better understanding what it was like to balance rigorous academics and powerhouse soccer at Cal as a true freshman.

CalBears.com: Now that you've got one year of collegiate women's soccer under your belt - what was the best part of the soccer season?
Rachel Clark: The best part of the season was when the team really bonded before the Santa Clara game

CalBears.com: What was the best part about your fall semester?
RC: I did well in my classes and was also able to have a lot of fun.

CalBears.com: After a semester of college academics, what are you planning on doing differently or the same next semester in terms of school?
RC: I'm planning on keeping up with my reading.

CalBears.com: What is something you didn't know before you came to Cal but you now know?
RC: Public transportation, such as the AC Transit bus system and BART - are life savers.

CalBears.com: What was the favorite class you took during the fall?
RC: It wasn't a class, but I received units for tutoring at an elementary school. It was by far the most enjoyable academic time of the semester.

CalBears.com: Was playing at the NCAA Division I level what you expected or more?
RC: It's more challenging, but can offer greater rewards.

CalBears.com: What was it like to balance school and a competitive soccer team at the collegiate level?
RC: It was difficult at first, however in time, I found what system worked for me.

CalBears.com: Has Cal lived up to or has it been different or better than the expectations you had of it when you signed your national letter of intent in high school?
RC: Cal has been everything I thought it would be. I fell in love with the campus and area on my first visit. After the first semester, I still couldn't be happier to be here.