Darcy Riley

Name: Darcy Riley

School/Mascot: University of Wisconsin-Madison Badgers

Sport: Soccer

Class: Junior

Current City: Madison

Hometown: Akron, Ohio

Birth date: 10-6-88

Age: 21

Height/Weight: 5′7 135

On your sport...

How long have you played? What inspired you to play?
I have played since I was 4. My three older brothers all played so I followed their lead.
Where is your favorite place to play (compete)?
My favorite place to compete would be against any Big10 school.
What is your favorite number? Why?
7 (because I’m Irish and its lucky!) or 4 because that was my number since 7th grade

Who is the best player you’ve played WITH and AGAINST?
With- Liz Secue (High School teammate-Currently plays for Purdue University W. Soccer) Against- Once you get to a higher level, you play against the top players in the nation all the time.. I couldn’t just name “one” player, there has been so many.
Do you have a pre-game ritual? If so, what is it?
Listen to my ipod and get focused
If you didn’t play your sport, what sport would you play?
Basketball! I was a point guard and loved it! Could never remember all the plays though.
What is the worst experienced you’ve had? What did you learn from it?
Probably a bad foot injury. I just had surgery on it, finally, but when it wasn’t fixed yet it would hurt all the time and I learned to play through the pain and not complain. I also realized there is bigger things than a foot injury.
Have you ever had an injury while performing your sport?
Yes, my foot injury. I had an extra bone removed and a screw put in to reconnect a tendon
What do you consider as your greatest accomplishment?
Playing a Big10 sport is a huge accomplishment. It is a ton of work.
What is your most memorable moment? Why?
Winning State senior year and being voted #1 team in the nation with my team, Walsh Jesuit. Also – making it to the Sweet 16 this past year with Wisconsin
How has your sport helped you become who you are today?

Made the best friends ever, learned how to have time management, and be coachable and a good teammate.

Behind your sport

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Mostly just hanging out with friends
Name 3 Fun Facts about yourself that people may not know.
1. I am an early bird. Love the morning.
2. Have never tried a food I don’t like. Love all food.
3. Surprisingly I don’t like running! In an average soccer game u run 4-6 miles but I don’t like going for long runs. More of a sprinter girl.
Facebook or Twitter?
More facebook but BOTH!
Ps3 or Xbox or neither?
Xbox
What is your favorite part about college?
My team and the amazing spirit at this school. it’s awesome.
Who is the most influential person you’ve met? Why?
My dad. He is such a cool guy who stays calm in every situation and keeps me positive all the time.

What do you value the most?
My family

What is your major? Why did you choose it?
Education. Because I love kids and teaching!
Outside of your sport, what are your visions/goals in life?
To be happy!! Get married and teach my kids how to play soccer!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I have no clue! Well have to see!

Final thoughts

How do you feel about being selected for Strive4 Exposed?
I was very excited when I was asked. I love talking about my sport.
What are your thoughts about Mylan Murphy?
He is a great, hardworking guy who I have known since he was young.
What advice do you have to anyone reading your story?
Just stay confident! Don’t get down if one person says no because there will be someone else that will want you. Always give it your all.. if you don’t you’ll regret it.
What will you continue to Strive4?
Happiness

Follow Darcy’s athletic career at http://www.uwbadgers.com/sports/w-soccer/mtt/riley_darcy00.html