The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
Meet the newcomers: Emilie Campbell
07.24.2012 | Soccer
July 24, 2012
AUSTIN, Texas -
Emilie Campbell is a three-year member of the Canadian National Team training centre (2010-12). She was a member of the U17 Canadian Women's National Team roster in 2010.
As a member of the Ontario Provincial Team, she earned two gold medals (U16 in 2008 and 2010) and two silver medals (U14 in 2006 and U16 in 2009). She played club soccer for the London City Flash where she led the team to a U14 Canadian National Championship and U14 Ontario Cup title in 2006.
In 2008, she led the North London Flash to the U16 Ontario Cup finals.
Campbell helped Mother Teresa Catholic Secondary School win the 2011 Ontario Federation of School Athletic Association soccer tournament gold medal.
Campbell recently visited with TexasSports.com as she prepares for her freshman season with the Longhorns.
Has it been a long-term goal to earn an opportunity to play collegiate soccer in the United States? Yes, I always figured we (along with twin sister, Chantale) would play in the States. The quality of soccer at the universities in Canada is just not as developed.
Are you and Chantale identical twins? Yes, we're identical.
Then what traits distinguish each of you? Chantale just added streaks to her hair, so we look quite different right now. People say I'm the quieter twin. She's not loud, but I guess she commands more of a presence than me. We're best friends, attached at the hip, definitely.
What about The University of Texas specifically was appealing to you? I'll admit that before being recruited there, I didn't know much about the university. But when we visited, it was incredible. It was so big, and it just has this winner mentality that I really loved. It's prestigious, and there's a great energy about it.
What excites you about training under Coach Kelly and her staff? She seems like a really good person. I know she's a great coach. When talking to her over the phone, I felt like I could trust her and that I would be in safe hands. I'm excited because she has a lot of energy and seems very smart. I think it will be a great experience.
What is it about the game of soccer that keeps inspiring your passion? I've just always loved it. There's something about it that I don't know what I'd do with my life without it.
What are your early impressions of the summer conditioning plan, and what are your goals personally before you arrive for preseason? When it first arrived, it was intimidating. It's a lot of work, and still a lot left to do. Obviously, I want to win, so I'm going to give my full effort. The weight training has been different. We have this class as school, called `fitness,' so we're always doing the work from the manual with guys, and they're giving us tips about how to do it properly. It seems awkward right now, but I know I will get better.
What are your academic plans while studying at UT? As of right now, I'd like to pursue something in English. I love to write. But I'm sure it will change over the years.
