The University of Texas at Austin Athletics

Soccer Blog: "Paige from the Pitch" with Paige Hooper [Aug. 24, 2016]
08.24.2016 | Soccer
In this week's blog, Paige introduces us to Texas soccer's three new transfers
Another busy week down as a Texas student-athlete. As we approach our first day of school, the rest of the population joins us on campus. Life has been full of orientations with a theme of "Together We're Texas." With all the new things we have been learning and new people that we have been meeting, I thought I should take some time so that y'all can get to know a few of our new players, the transfers!
Paige Brown #0, Senior Goal Keeper:
1. How many donuts are you capable of eating in one sitting?
"I'm not a big sweets person so 2 to 3."
P-Hoop's Comment: I know you have a secret sweet tooth, Paige. A little off day reward of a Gourdoughs's donut?
2. What animal best represents you and why?
"I think a kangaroo best represents me, because I just took an online animal personality test and that's what it told me… :-)"
P-Hoop's Comment: Haha…but why??
3. Do you have any pregame rituals?
"I don't like listen to music beforehand. I like to go out on the field and visualize in the goal box different types of saves and situations"
P-Hoop's Comment: It's true not everyone enjoys jamming before a game. Everyone does their own thing to get mentally prepared to dominate.
4. How many pull-ups can you do?
"18"
P-Hoop's Comment: She's a beast in the weight room, watch out, seriously.
Taylor Braun #18, Junior Goal Keeper:
1. What is your go to pre-game song?
"You Can't Stop Me by Andy Mineo"
P-Hoop's Comment: Christian rap swag. We all have varying tastes, but you better believe that our locker room is hype before a game. We saw your dance moves last week Taylor ;)
2. Final meal, what would it be?
"A hugeee steak, mashed potatoes, Texas Roadhouse rolls and unlimited chocolate chip pizookies!"
P-Hoop's Comment: Ohhh my, could not agree more!
3. Biggest pet peeve?
"When people don't clean up after themselves, I'm a clean freak??"
P-Hoop's Comment: You should see her apartment. It looks like it's straight out of HGTV. By the way, her aunt and uncle are Chip and Joanna Gaines from "Fixer Upper!" #casual
4. If you could have dinner with anyone past or present, who would it be and why?
"I would choose Bob Goff (author of Love Does), because I love his outlook on life. He takes risks, lives large and loves people."
P-Hoop's Comment: An awesome read, Taylor leads our team's prayer circle before games.
Monique Iannella #7, Junior Midfielder/ Defender :
1. What was your biggest surprise about America?
"How humid it is here, and how difficult it is to find healthy dairy and gluten-free options."
P-Hoop's Comment: Welcome to Texas Monique, by the end of practice we are all drenched in sweat! Monique has a very unique and restricted diet. You can catch her chowing down on shrimp and peppers though.
2. When did you start soccer & who inspired you?
"I started when I was eight after finishing ballet class and waiting for my brother to finish soccer practice, so I guess my brother was the inspiration. But in terms of my favourite player growing up, 'Totti' from the Italian national team and now from Roma"
P-Hoop's Comment: "Favourite." Ha Ha, you should hear her accent. It's terrific!
3. Describe your perfect day…
"Going to one of my favourite cafes in Melbourne and having brunch with friends or family. Going to work as a lawyer, playing a game of soccer and going home to my family"
P-Hoop's Comment: Brunch and soccer, sounds like a great day :)
4. What are three words that describe you…
"Dedicated, honest, fun"
P-Hoop's Comment: Our Aussie is hardworking and her honesty leaves us all laughing.
I hope you enjoyed reading their responses as much as I did getting them for you. We have some unique personalities on this team. Be sure to come support your Longhorns this Fri., August 26, at 7:30 as we take on the College of Charleston at our home field, Mike A. Myers Stadium.
Hook'em
P-Hoop with the Scoop