ETSU’s women’s soccer season has begun and is revving up for a much more normal season to come. This year the team includes several international players, including new freshman Shu Obha from Japan.
“We have nine internationals, or eight, so I just think that that piece of diversity for the university is just super fantastic for everybody to get to experience different cultures and learn from each other, you know, that’s a big deal for me,” said women’s soccer coach Jeremy Yelton.
Shu Ohba is a freshman student majoring in kinesiology. She plays as a goalkeeper for the women’s team. Although this is her first season playing in the United States, she has played soccer since she was eight years old and played at the national level for Japan. Shu arrived on campus a couple of weeks before preseason to become familiar with the team and work on her language skills.
“I chose ETSU for college because this college offers an advanced sports science field. Also, I believe this college provides a good environment/atmosphere.” said Shu Ohba in response to why ETSU was her choice of school. “I like the team. I think everyone is kind and I feel like the team is close with everyone.”
According to Coach Yelton, Ohba is a talented goalkeeper and a radiant personality. “In our four matches… we only conceded one goal. So, one of those things is just Shu’s high standards and all the things that she brings to us. She’s very positive and has a great attitude and is always in a good mood.”
Practice and games are already underway this semester, but Ohba still is keeping her focus on ways to improve her performance. “I would like to improve my success rate of quality passes, while also increasing the variety of my long kicks. Also, I would like to increase my muscle mass and strengthen my core as well.”
Having won three of the four matches so far, the women’s soccer team is off to a good start. Ohba is excited that the team will have the opportunity to travel to South Carolina and Nashville, and Coach Yelton is looking forward to improving the team’s goal shots and entertaining performance.
“We want to play with passion, so when the fans come out to support us, they know that we’re there to represent them, and make them proud of the effort we’re putting out,” Coach Yelton said.
