By Mark Bohannon, SAC Media Relations Office

This is the third in a series of articles for 2005-06 that will periodically feature student-athletes from the league's member institutions who have distinguished themselves.

The Newberry women's soccer program went through a 29-game conference losing streak, which was snapped in 2004 under the direction of second-year coach Juan Pablo Favero and a roster loaded with talented freshman. Among the young team leaders was Inga Woiwode, a talented player from El Paso, Texas.

Inga was named 2004 Co-Freshman of the Year and First Team All-South Atlantic Conference after leading the Lady Indians in total points with 35. Those 35 points were third most in the SAC. Woiwode, now a sophomore, currently leads the SAC in assists per game. She spoke recently with SAC Intern Mark Bohannon.

Q: You have participated with the Under 18 and Under 19 Mexican national teams. How has your experience with the Mexican national team prepared you for competition in the South Atlantic Conference?

Newberry's Inga Woiwode (white jersey), along with her teammates, is helping to strengthen the women's soccer program. She would like to play for the Mexican national team in the future. Photos courtesy Newberry College

A: Competing with the Mexican national teams has helped me see certain functions of soccer on a whole new level. It has assisted me in learning and understanding my role on the soccer field. Playing with the national team has also given me a different point of view on how the game is played. I have gained more experience while playing for the Mexican national team, which is extraordinarily beneficial. I can bring all of these aspects with me to better improve my play in the South Atlantic Conference.

Q: How has your experience playing soccer in the South Atlantic Conference prepared you for soccer beyond the collegiate level?

A: Once I graduate from college, I would love to continue my soccer career with the Mexican national team. I am getting loads of experience on the soccer field while playing for Newberry College, which is very valuable to an athlete’s career. Playing in the SAC helps me fully understand the notion of competition. The SAC is a very competitive league and I realize that soccer after college will be no different. I recognize the importance of hard work. There is no slacking off in the South Atlantic Conference. This helps me prepare for the intense training I would have to go through if I have the privilege to play soccer after my collegiate career.

Q: Why did you choose to attend and play soccer for Newberry College?

A: When I came to visit the Newberry campus, I immediately fell in love with the atmosphere. I really love the atmosphere of Newberry College. The people around campus seemed extremely friendly and helpful during my first visit. I also wanted to experience something different. Overall, I just felt like Newberry was a wonderful place, and I wanted to be a part of such a friendly environment.

Q: Outside of soccer, what do you see for yourself as a long-term career goal?

A: I am majoring in Biology and would like to pursue a career as a physical therapist. I am currently looking at attending the University of California after I graduate from Newberry College in order to obtain my doctorate. Meanwhile, I am assessing all of my options while I complete my degree at Newberry.

Q: The Newberry Indians have a current soccer record of 6-4-1. What are the team’s expectations for the rest of the season?

A: We are just taking it on a game-by-game basis. We don’t want to look too far forward and get ahead of ourselves. As a whole, we would love to win the rest of our games this season. One of our main goals though is to get in a good position for the conference tournament. We want to be in a position where we can possible do some damage.

Q: Is their any one athlete -- past or present -- that you respect or admire more than any other athlete?

A: I would have to say that I really admire and respect Lance Armstrong. Lance has had to battle through many tough times and situations. He has excelled through adversity in order to win a remarkable seven Tour de France titles. I really look up to Lance Armstrong because he never quits and continues fighting day after day.