21. Student-Athlete Series- Kenna McCarthy

In this episode, the second of our players series, we welcome a current women’s soccer student-athlete, Kenna McCarthy, who plays at Christopher Newport University in Newport News, VA. She was a part of the 2021 National Championship team and brings leadership and maturity that her coach, Jamie Gunderson, who also joins us, finds invaluable. Despite things not always going her way, Kenna is a fantastic example of being a role model and someone who her coaches and teammates can count on regardless of the situation. You’re going to enjoy this one. Please continue to subscribe to and share the podcast and follow MatchPlay on social media.

Summary

Kenna McCarthy, a defensive midfielder at Christopher Newport University, and her coach, Jamie Gunderson, discuss Kenna's soccer journey and the college recruiting process. Kenna shares her experience growing up in a soccer environment and her decision to pursue college soccer. She discusses the importance of finding the right fit in terms of soccer level, school size, and location. Kenna also talks about the role her parents played in guiding her through the recruiting process. Jamie shares his perspective as a coach and the qualities he looks for in recruits. Kenna reflects on her role as a leader on the team and the importance of being yourself during the recruiting process. She also highlights the close-knit relationships and the fun and serious moments she experiences as a member of the team. Kenna McCarthy reflects on her favorite memories and experiences as a soccer player, highlighting the importance of team bonding and camaraderie. She particularly enjoys the bus rides after winning the national championship and the fun games played during practices. McCarthy also emphasizes the significance of dinner with her teammates, where they spend hours together at the dining hall, creating lasting memories.

Takeaways

Finding the right fit in terms of soccer level, school size, and location is important in the college recruiting process.

Parents should support and guide their child through the recruiting process, but it's important for the recruit to take the lead and make their own decisions.

Attitude and character are important factors that coaches consider when recruiting players.

Being a good teammate and having a positive attitude, even when not starting, can make a significant impact on the team.

Building relationships and being yourself during the recruiting process is crucial in finding the right fit.

Playing college soccer is a rewarding experience that involves both fun and serious moments. Team bonding and camaraderie are essential for a positive sports experience.

Memorable moments often involve fun games and activities with teammates.

Shared meals, such as dinner, can foster strong relationships and create lasting memories.

Creating a sense of belonging and a supportive team environment enhances the overall soccer experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:19 Early Soccer Experience

03:37 Recruiting Process

06:31 Choosing a College

10:06 Division 1 vs Division 3

12:25 Parental Guidance

14:07 Coach's Perspective

18:23 Handling Not Being a Starter

21:46 Playing Time and COVID Year

24:54 Leadership and Hosting Recruits

34:31 Being Yourself and First Impressions

40:10 Playing at CNU

42:33 Favorite Memories

43:24 Favorite Memories and Bus Rides

45:20 Fun Games and Team Bonding

47:14 Dinner and Team Camaraderie