STAFF WRITER

Elizabeth Zhangi/The Ram Kelsey Dougherty Howard missed last season after suffering an injury in the season opener at Michigan.

Senior Kelsey Dougherty Howard has been a key player for the Fordham women’s soccer team since the beginning of her college career. From being one of three freshmen to start in all 19 games and back-to-back Atlantic 10 Commissioner’s Honor Roll titles, to a season-long injury, to captain, she has done it all.

The Fordham Ram: What made you choose Fordham?

Kelsey Dougherty Howard: I knew I either wanted to stay in Florida or come to the Northeast. I called Fordham to come scout me at a game and when I visited the school I knew it was the perfect mix of academics and location.

TFR: What is it like starting as a freshman versus starting as a senior?

KDH: I’m much more comfortable than I was freshman year; I have more of a sense of urgency on the field now. I’ve learned that the more time and energy you invest in what you love, the more you achieve.

TFR: You were injured all of junior year. What was it like to go from the bench last year to captain this year?

KDH: Being forced to sit on the bench for a season gives you a very different perspective on how much it meant to play and how much I liked playing. I am very honored and excited to be a captain of such a great group of girls.

TFR: What are some of the team’s goals for the season?

KDH: To make the A-10 conference tournament is our goal every season. Then, making it all the way to the championship is a next-level goal. Once you’re in the tournament, anything can happen.

TFR: What was your favorite moment at Fordham?

KDH: Definitely when we beat Maryland last year. I didn’t even play, and it was still so exciting from the bench. It wasn’t even necessarily our skills that won the game. It was more our hearts.

TFR: Any plans for after graduation?

KDH: Well, since I was injured last year I have another year of eligibility. I’ll play here next fall and take some bio graduate classes. After that I’d really like to go to law school and study environmental law.

Categories: Soccer, Sports

Tags: BETSY BOEHLER, Elizabeth Zhangi