University of Richmond Athletics
Meaghan Carrigan Named Wells Fargo Athlete Of The Week
10/25/2016 | Women's Soccer
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND, Va. – After a standout performance in the Spiders' 4-3 win over La Salle last week, University of Richmond women's soccer senior Meaghan Carrigan has been selected as the Wells Fargo Athlete of the Week.
Carrigan scored twice in the high-scoring win, once in each half. She opened the scoring for both teams in the ninth minute when she buried the ball after receiving it in front of the La Salle goalie, before giving Richmond a 3-1 lead in the second half when she took a free kick just outside of the box and sent it into the top left corner of the net.
The attacker is tied for the team lead with 10 goals this season, and sits in second in points with 23. She currently sits in sixth place in the Richmond record book with 61 career points, and fifth in career goals with 26.
Can you talk about your tactics when taking a free kick outside of the box?
MC: When taking a free kick, I look at where the wall is set up and what side of the goal the keeper is covering. I reflect on the finishing session where I've worked on free kicks and try not to overthink the kick too much. I always want to put the ball on frame to give myself a shot of scoring.
What is the team's main focus entering the final weekend of regular-season play?
MC: We know we need points coming out of the final weekend of play. Our biggest focus is to execute our game plan. We want to keep the ball and play possession-oriented soccer. It's going to be tough but I expect a really fun weekend of soccer.
Thursday is the team's final home game of the season. How does that influence your play?
MC: We obviously love to play at home in front of our fans. We want to be aggressive and score goals! With Thursday's game being our home finale, I think there will be an added level of excitement.
Why did you choose to come to Richmond?
MC: I chose to come to Richmond because of the balance between academics and athletics and the camaraderie of the team. I knew I wanted to go to a challenging academic school where I could compete at a high level. The team was such a big factor because the girls were all so close off the field.
What has been your favorite moment as a Spider?
MC: It's hard to pick one distinct memory but one of them would have to be our season finale last year against VCU. It was the most exciting game to watch and the energy in the stadium was amazing. Although we knew regardless of the result we would not qualify for the tournament, every member of the team gave everything they had to ensure a Spider win over our rival VCU!!
Do you have any pregame rituals?
MC: Not really, I try not to be too superstitious about things.
What's your favorite headband to wear during a game?
MC: My favorite headband is my bright pink one, however, it clashes with our red uniform so I can only wear it when we wear white.
What is your favorite animal?
MC: Golden Retriever for sure!! I'm hoping to get a puppy ASAP after I graduate.
What do you like to do with your free time?
MC: I love to find cool places in Richmond like the different farmers markets and try new restaurants with my friends. I also love to cook when I am at home!
What's your favorite sport outside of soccer?
MC: Probably tennis. I think it's a great lifetime sport and something I'll play for awhile when I'm done with soccer.
What do you want to do when you graduate?
MC: After I graduate, I hope to continue playing soccer, whether that's here in the United States or somewhere abroad. Beyond soccer, I hope to pursue a career in marketing, possibly working with a sports brand.
