Oct. 26, 2005

As part of the new and improved gobonnies.com, the Student-Athlete of the Week profiles a different St. Bonaventure student-athlete each week. This feature will allow Bonnies supporters to learn more about the outstanding student athletes that represent St. Bonaventure University.

All-Conference senior soccer player Heather MacDougall talks about her career at St. Bonaventure.

You played with the Toronto Lady Lynx team this summer, how did that help you prepare for this season?

"The intensity of every practice and game forced me to play my best at all times. Everyone on our team was on scholarship in the states so they all were really good. You had to compete everyday in practice and always had to be on your "A" game."

You've scored an astonishing 56 points over your last 35 games. Is there added pressure on you to score because people are looking to you or expect you to score?

"Yeah I know the pressure is on me, but I put it behind me and try not to think about it. I to contribute anyway I can towards us winning the game."

After leading the A-10 in scoring last season you knew teams were going to come out and mark you at all times. Despite drawing more attention from the defense you've been able to put up good numbers. What adjustments have you made?

"I've taken on a different role than last year. When I draw more attention from the defense I look to distribute the ball and use my play making abilities that way. When the defense starts to play my passes then I can attack."

What about your game makes you such a prolific goal scorer? What's your mentality when you get the ball?

"I think my creativity and change of pace when I have the ball really gives me an advantage. I'm confident when I get the ball that I can lose the defender and create a scoring opportunity."

Since Kerry joined the team last year your point production has gone up and it seems like you guys are always on the same page. Describe how she has benefited you and how you guys mesh so well?

"She's definitely meant a lot to me. I think we've had a chemistry ever sense she has been here, even before we started playing soccer. I think being really good friends has helped once we got on the field. It really calms you down during the game when you know you someone else out there that you can count on."

You're amongst the leaders in every offensive category in school history. When you finish your career here at St. Bonaventure, what do you think those records will mean to you?

"Right now I just think it's cool. Down the road I'm going to look back on it and be pretty proud of what I've done.

You've played in over 70 games in a St. Bonaventure uniform and now you're down to your final two. What are your feelings going to be as you play your final two games in a Bona uniform this weekend?

"I'm definitely really sad, but I know that once I get into the game I'm not going to think it. I'm going to go out there and give it everything that I've got so we can end this season with back-to-back wins."

What's your most memorable moment as a Bonnie?

"I'd have to say the game against Richmond my sophomore year. They were at the top of the A-10 with no league losses and we beat them in double overtime.

Who has been the biggest influence on your soccer career?

"My parents are number one. They have been there for me every step of the way. Driving me to games and anywhere I had to go. They come to every home game and even road games. They are always there supporting me and I can`t forget my brothers as well."

What are your plans when you graduate? Do you plan on furthering your soccer career?

"This summer I plan on playing with the Lady Lynx again and then I plan on going to teacher's college. My friend and I would like to go over to Italy for a while. Maybe I'll see if I can play soccer there."