Senior Captain Is O-Kay to Lead

Is it possible to fall in love at first site at the tender age of four? It is for Samantha Kay, a senior at the University of Tampa. Kay is captain of the university's women's soccer team.

She has been the leader of her squads since high school, including her club team, and three years running for the UT Spartans. Kay lit up as she spoke about playing soccer. "When I was younger I played many sports." Soccer however, seemed to be the one activity that stuck.

She recalled being drawn to the competitiveness and team aspect of the sport. Her connection to soccer was apparent as she became active on her early school teams; but much like any "love game", there are low points.

Kay recalled wanting to stop playing in seventh or eighth grade; thankfully, she was encouraged by friends and family to keep playing. Her love for the game was once again heightened as she impressively played and started every game in high school at Ocean Township HS.

As captain, she led her team to the state championship where they were only the second team to win it in her town. Being the leader of her high school team foreshadowed events to come for her college career at UT.

As a sophomore, Kay was named team captain and really worked on what it meant to lead a team. She focused on and still does today, leading by example. This criterion is crucial when she as player experiences difficult games. Being optimistic and continuously trying to get better leaves room for her positive attitude/actions to be mirrored.

Kay also stresses the importance of being vocal with her teammates. This Spartan must be doing something right as she was awarded captain two times after that including this season. As captain of the UT squad, Kay has helped lead the Spartans to a conference championship (SSC) and two NCAA tourney appearances.

She has played over 60 games, has more than 10 goals, 30 points, 10 assists and has averaged a 92 shot percentage. Throughout her successful career thus far, she has made it a point to be a serious student as well, evident through her back to back SSC Commissioner's Honor Roll recognitions.

Kay doesn't only take pride in leading; she enjoys learning from her teammates as well, she mentioned that, "everyone brings a different (leadership) aspect to the team."

Kay hopes to continue working on becoming a better leader and hopes to guide her team as far as possible in the NCAA tournament. She also hopes to coach one day, but after she tries a regular nine to five stint first.

Written by Alesia Wilson