FARMVILLE, Va. – Longwood University freshman women's soccer standout Amanda Spencer/Gibsonia, Pennsylvania has been named the Longwood Female Athlete of the Week. The first-year midfielder scored two goals last week against High Point, including the game-winner, and added an assist while leading Longwood to a 4-2 home victory. She scored her first goal against the Panthers in the seventh minute, assisted by senior Kelsey Pardue, and added her second goal in the 16th minute for her third game-winning goal this season. Spencer also contributed an assist in the 75th minute on a goal scored by classmate Christina Corbin. Through 14 matches, Amanda leads the team in scoring with eight goals and two assists for 18 points.
Question and Answer Session with Amanda Spencer and Ashley Robbins
AR: You logged your third, multiple-goal game of the season against High Point. Talk about being able to find the net so often this year.
AS: Scoring a goal is a team effort. A goal builds up from multiple players on the field, so I am grateful that I get to be a part of that process.
AR: Did you foresee being this successful and leading the team as a rookie?
AS: I never thought I would be anywhere close to this successful. I am just happy that I get playing time.
AR: What is the biggest difference you see between the high school and college game and how have you been able to adjust so quickly?
AS: The biggest difference I see is the speed, size and strength of each player. Everyone is bigger, faster and stronger in college than in high school. I have been able to adjust by playing faster, so that I do not get stuck in tackle or in a foot race.
AR: How does it feel to be starting and contributing so much to the team's success as a freshman?
AS: It is the greatest feeling that I am apart of a program like this. All of it is a team effort.
AR: Did you do anything special or different to prepare during the offseason before coming to Longwood?
AS: During the offseason, I just made sure I kept up with Coach Dyer's summer workouts.
AR: Why did you choose Longwood?
AS: To be honest, at first I had no desire to come to Longwood, but after I visited, I fell in love with everything Longwood offers. I loved the campus, the soccer program and most importantly the people!
AR: What are your individual and team goals for the rest of the season?
AS: My goal for the team is to win the Big South. That is my top priority. A personal goal for me would be to get over 20 career points.
AR: Who do you consider to be a role model in your life?
AS: My parents would be my role models, I appreciate them putting me into soccer in the first place, and I love the way they taught me to be passionate about everything in life.
AR: What is the best thing about LUWOSO?
AS: The team is the best part of LUWOSO. The bond that I have formed with these women is irreplaceable.
AR: Do you have any pre game rituals or superstitions?
AS: My pre game ritual would be to put my ear buds in and listen to my music. I like to block out the outside world and just focus on the upcoming game.
AR: If you could swap places with one teammate for the day, who would it be and why?
AS: I would swap places with Kylie Dyer. She is so outgoing and personable, and sees the good in every moment. I would love to see the world through her eyes.