Athlete Spotlight
Andrew Mayson, Sports Editor
May 15, 2012
Filed under Sports
Athlete
Taylor Hurst, Sophomore
Sport
Lady Jackets’ Soccer
Position
Forward
This past football season, Jacket running back Vinny Miller became a hot topic across the state. Miller rushed for over 2,700 yards and scored over 40 touchdowns, breaking many records (and ankles) along the way. The superstar back displayed more speed, elusiveness, and creativity on the field than North Augusta had seen in years. It turns out Vinny Miller isn’t the only speed demon North Augusta has to offer.
Sophomore soccer phenom Taylor Hurst is known for running up and down the football field during December, putting up unbelievable numbers during the Powderpuff championships. It’s not Powderpuff anymore, and instead of rushing for flag-football touchdowns, our featured athlete is tearing up the net this soccer season.
Hurst earned all-region honors as a freshman last year, something that is rarely accomplished. She is on track to repeat that honor, due to her 9 assists and 12 goals scored during the regular season. Many colleges are also taking notice at the talented sophomore. Before she joins Hope Solo, Abby Wambach, and the rest of the U.S. Women’s soccer team, she decided to answer a few questions for The Yellow Jacket.
Q: What age did you begin playing soccer?
A: I started playing at four years old.
Q: When did you decide you wanted to begin taking the sport seriously and competitively?
A: At ten years old, I started taking it seriously. That’s when I joined my first travel team.
Q: How did you handle being a star varsity player as a freshman?
A: I just played my game and didn’t ever consider age to be a factor.
Q: Do you feel that due to your talent and experience you will take a stronger leadership role next year as a junior?
A: Yes, especially with seniors like Arianna Pierner leaving. I will need to step up.
Q: What has been your biggest challenge this season, and what has been the team’s biggest challenge?
A: My biggest challenge this season was adjusting to the new team. I haven’t had much experience playing with all these girls together until this season. The team’s biggest challenge was figuring out how to work together since this was the first time most of us have ever played together.
Q: Who has been the team’s best opponent this season?
A: Lexington was really good, but we could have put up a better fight. I’d like another chance against them.
Q: Which game did the team perform best?
A: We played really well against Greenbrier. Everyone had a great game.
Q: How do you prepare yourself for a game mentally?
A: I just chill out and listen to music.
Q: How do you mentally get yourself past a bad game and bounce back?
A: I just remind myself that losing is a part of the game, you’ve just got to accept the loss and move on. It’s motivation to get better and play your best the next game.
Q: What preparations do you take outside of practice?
A: I go to the gym a good bit, and I like to run through my neighborhood. Staying conditioned is really important since we run so much in soccer.
Q: How much of your schedule does soccer take up?
A: On average, I’m playing soccer every day of the week and just about every other weekend. It’s all I really do.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about soccer?
A: I’m a very competitive person and I love to compete, so I enjoy the competitive atmosphere soccer creates. I’ve also made some of my best friends while playing.
Q: Now our last and required question from the TYJ staff, Mac or PC?
A: I have an iPhone, but I don’t really care to be honest.
The Lady Jackets finished their regular season with a 10-9-2 record, including a 5-5 record in the region. TYJ wishes Taylor Hurst and the Lady Jackets the best of luck during their playoff run.
