University of Richmond Athletics
Catching Up With Ashley Riefner
06/24/2016 | Women's Soccer
Recent Richmond grad Ashley Riefner ('16) signed a contract last month to play professional soccer with PK-35 of the Finnish Champions League.
Riefner became the fourth Spider women's soccer student-athlete to earn a professional contract, joining Jaclyn Raveia ('01), Edda Gardarsdottir ('03) and Olina Vidarsdottir ('04). She took the time to answer questions for RichmondSpiders.com about her experience on the team so far.
RichmondSpiders.com: How was your transition from playing at Richmond to playing professionally in Finland?
Riefner: It took a week or two to get used to the style of play at PK-35. Thankfully, my teammates and coaches have been more than willing to explain drills and activities. I would say I have been able to develop my play to fit their style a little more every day. The soccer here is at a different level; the passes are crisper, the strategies are more tactical, the players have true technical ability and there is an unmatched love of the game. It is the perfect environment for me, and allows me to grow as both a soccer player and as a person.
RichmondSpiders.com: What's the biggest challenge about playing professionally?
Riefner: The biggest challenge for me is staying confident and positive about my game at all times. Being a professional athlete requires a tremendous amount of mental toughness. The challenge is constantly having to prove to yourself, your teammates and your coaches that you belong. In game, the tempo is much faster and more demanding. You always have to think two steps ahead of your opponent, and that requires a lot of focus and skill.
RichmondSpiders.com: How does playing professionally differ from playing at the NCAA Division I level?
Riefner: There is more of a focus on keeping possession in all areas of the field. The pace of play is faster and the game is more tactical.
RichmondSpiders.com: You scored your first professional goal (and added a second) this week and have already started for your team. Can you talk about what those accomplishments mean to you and your career?
Riefner: This whole experience means so much to me. I love a challenge, and everything about this experience has been just that. Living in a foreign country, making new friends and understanding a new culture and language have not been easy, but scoring my first goal and gaining minutes on the field make all of these struggles worth it. I know this experience will help me develop my game and allow me to become a smarter soccer player.
RichmondSpiders.com: How did your experience at Richmond prepare you for this new experience abroad?
Riefner: My four years at Richmond were some of the best years of my life. I grew up a lot during my time at Richmond and learned a lot about myself. My education at Richmond required me to think outside of the box, and I thank Richmond for making me the person I am today. Spider pride baby! Shout out to Spider Soccer, because those girls will be my best friends for life.
