Sept. 17, 2008
The UCF men's soccer season is currently underway, and the Knights are led by co-captain and midfielder Chris Andaur. Andaur, and fellow veteran Ryan Roushandel, are the only returning seniors on the squad. Behind the leadership of the two veterans, the team looks to show improvement in head coach Bryan Cunningham's second season.
Andaur, a business major, was one of just five players to appear in all 18 matches last season. He finished the 2007 campaign with two assists and 13 total shots on goal. The former Florida International University transfer looks to build upon those stats and lead the Knights to a successful season. Conference USA play begins on Sept. 20, when the Knights host Memphis. Andaur recently spoke with the UCF athletics communications staff on how his season and semester are progressing.
What have been the major differences between this season's and last year's teams?
"The quality of the practices have improved tremendously. From day one, we have all come in with the same mentality that we want to win and change our season from last year. The team wants to make it to the conference tournament and win the Conference USA title."
What are the team's goals this season? Do you have any personal goals?
"As a team we are going to take it game by game. We can't be looking ahead. Last year we looked ahead and we had a really tough season. This year we are going to take it game by game and progress every time out in building towards our team goal of winning a conference championship. My personal goals this year are to have a good season, be one of the team leaders on and off the field and produce five goals and five assists."
Being one of three seniors on the team, how do you think your leadership has improved over the years?
"I realized what responsibilities you have as a senior and as a captain. You have to be a role model to the freshmen, because they look up to you. You have to set an example in the classroom, as well as on the field. That is what is most important to coach Cunningham, that we are leaders in the classroom and on the field."
What are the main differences between playing at UCF and your previous school?
"Everything. Facilities are 10 times better. Practices are 10 times better. Overall, the experience I have had here has been tremendous. I know I have improved and developed a lot more here at UCF then I would have at my previous institution."
What are your plans after graduation? Do you have any ambitions to play soccer professionally?
"I really want to play somewhere professionally. I have visited a couple teams that hopefully I can try out for after graduation, but most importantly it is about having a good season. Then we will go from there and see what happens next."
How difficult is it balancing a full class load during the soccer season?
"Balancing the class load and soccer is incredibly difficult because we are always traveling, missing classes and trying to make up classes. We also have to make up tests that we have missed. Overall, it is very hard for sure."
How have the new coaching staff additions assisted you since arriving at UCF?
"(Jim Cofer, James Prosser and Mauricio Ruiz) have brought so much energy, poise and determination since arriving at UCF. They make this program what it is, and that is a top 25 program in the country."
-Eric DeSalvo