Fresno State Athletics
Sill Makes a Lasting Impression
10/21/2008 12:00:00 AM | Women's Soccer
Oct. 21, 2008
FRESNO, Calif. - Time on the soccer field goes by fast and senior midfielder Ali Sill is taking this season day by day. As conference play begins, she looks to win a WAC title one last time.
"The best moment so far has been winning WAC," said Sill. "It was great because we started out slow and no one expected us to win."
Sill joined the Bulldog soccer team four years ago, and she has evolved from a shy and quiet player into a playmaker and captain on the squad.
Sill broke the career assist record when she recorded her 22nd assist against San Jose State on Oct. 10. Last year, Sill set the single season record of nine assist and has four assist this season.
"It is shocking because I didn't come here to break records," said Sill. "I came to play soccer and for the experience."
Sill's has become the go-to girl in the midfield, and has been compared to a rock because she is reliable in the middle of the field. This season alone, Sill has set Nicole Gutierrez up three times for goals.
Sill is able to win the ball in the midfield and distribute it. She has perfected creating plays and starting an attack for the Bulldog offense. Sill credits her success to her family and her coaches.
"Watching CJ (Christine Johnson) play makes me want to play like her," said Sill.
Aside, from leading the team in assists, Sill also shares the role of leading the team, as she is one of three captains on the young Bulldog team.
"As a freshman I was really shy and quiet," said Sill. "Over the years I have learned to speak up. If I see something not working then I say something."
The expectations have changed for Sill over the years as well. Now as a veteran, Sill, has taken over more leadership responsibilities, on and off the field.
"We have a young team and I have to show them how we play," said Sill. "I work harder, so the team will work harder."
In a game where anything can happen, Sill has the routine down. Whether she is lifting weights, at practice, finishing homework, or competing in a game, she will miss the juggling act and her team the most. The one thing she will not miss is the Tuesday practices.
"It is a lot easier as a senior, but Tuesday conditioning practices are still not fun," said Sill. "The butterflies are gone though. I used to wake up with butterflies on Tuesday mornings."
"Join the State, Fresno State!" - The `Dogs welcome Boise State to Bulldog Stadium on Friday, October 24 at 7 p.m. It's Take a Kid to the Game Night and all kids 8th grade and under receive FREE admission to the match when accompanied by a paid adult. It's also Fresno State Faculty and Staff Appreciation Night and all Fresno State Faculty and Staff will receive $2 admission with the presentation of their Faculty/Staff ID at the box office. To purchase tickets, click on the tickets icon at the top of this page, call the Bulldog Ticket Office at (559) 278-DOGS, or stop by the Bulldog Ticket Office.
