Fordham University women’s soccer opened the season with three wins, one tie, and one loss.
After defeating Manhattan (2-1), Drexel (1-0), and Albany (4-2), and tying Wagner (1-1), the Rams were outplayed by a potent Fairfield squad this past Sunday in Connecticut, falling 5-0. Still, the defeat has not dampened Fordham’s solid beginning.
Thus far, it has been satisfying for senior midfielder Tristan McFarlane, who is savoring her final collegiate season. She has played soccer her entire life, so being on the pitch is second nature.
“I’ve always really loved sports,” said McFarlane, who also played competitive hockey while growing up. “I just loved playing soccer so much. Right around high school, I decided I wanted to choose soccer. My team was also very successful, and I love winning.”
After freshman year at the University of Hartford, McFarlane transferred to Fordham, embracing the campus and the pace of life in New York City. This is also Head Coach Magnus Nilerud’s third year at Fordham, and McFarlane is excited to be a part of building something new. “Also, I’m a business/finance major and the business school is really good here, and New York City has so much opportunity in finance,” she said.
With an eye to the future, McFarlane is focused on building connections, but her priority is doing her utmost to keep the wins coming. She is open to playing professional soccer after completing her bachelor’s degree.
“From the start of this season, since we all came back on campus, I feel like everyone [on the soccer team] has connected so well,” said McFarlane. “We feel really close. There’s not one person on the team I feel like I cannot talk to. On the field, I feel there’s so much chemistry. We talk about how we have a lot of depth on our bench. Anybody can come on the field and make an impact. Anybody can come on the field and we can play well with them.”
Tonight, Fordham women’s soccer plays Stonehill College in Massachusetts and then takes on Yale University in Connecticut on Sunday afternoon. Next week, it’s the Bronx versus Manhattan when the Rams play Columbia University.
Such road trips are a great time to forge bonds. At the beginning of the season, several team bonding events gave the players the opportunity to get to know each other and talk one-on-one. The upperclasswomen plan events and make an effort for everyone to feel connected.
“I’m really happy with the team. I think our season ahead is promising, and we’re going to get better and better,” McFarland said. “Being able to share success with your teammates is really rewarding.”
