Baca Part of Stellar Freshman Class
by Rhiannon Potkey, Ventura County Star
October 16, 2005 The local newspaper sent a photographer to take their pictures. The school Web site was touting their arrival. The fans were anxious to see them perform.
Before even pulling on a uniform and setting foot on the field, the freshmen on the Long Beach State women's soccer team were fully aware of the expectations surrounding them.
"I think we felt like we really had to prove ourselves. We didn't want to get all the hype for nothing," freshman midfielder Sara Baca (Buena) said. "But I think we have come out and shown this class is no joke. We are here to help the program."
Fueled by the contributions of its rookies, No. 25 Long Beach State is off to a 10-3-1 start this season and is nationally ranked for the first time in school history.
Under the tutelage of second-year coach Mauricio Ingrassia, the 49ers are only two wins shy of setting a school record for victories in a season with five regular-season games remaining.
"I think by the end of this year we are going to be put on the map," Baca said. "I think we have already earned the respect of some teams."
Baca has started every game in the midfield. Although initially worried about how the returning players would react to her role, Baca's fears were quickly put to rest.
"I thought some might be bitter, but I was surprised none were upset. Everyone respects each other and are really welcoming toward the freshmen," Baca said. "They just expected me to earn my spot, and I think I did that."
As each game passes, the 5-foot-7 Baca grows more comfortable with the speed and size found at the Division I level.
"The women are huge," said Baca, who turns 18 at the end of the month. "I still feel like I am a little kid out there compared to some of them."
A self-professed homebody, Baca has also enjoyed adapting to life on her own off the field.
"You are a lot more independent and have to learn to manage your time," she said. "You have some late nights staying up writing papers, especially if you procrastinate like I do. But I think going away has been a great experience for me."
Coming from a high school with such a rich tradition of soccer success, Baca wants to establish a similar pattern at Long Beach before she graduates.
"We have already come a long way, and hopefully it can continue to grow," she said. "I believe it can happen." |
