Name: Jacob Marquez
Year: senior
Hometown: Clarendon Hills
How is it playing soccer in the spring?
It's definitely different. I think the majority sentiment on the team is that we're just happy we have a season.
Has the postponement had any benefits?
I think it allowed us to get better. We did have a lot of contact days in November and that helped build up our team chemistry.
How has your game developed since freshman year?
I've gotten a lot more confident on the ball and more physical. I used to more timid, but now feel very confident out in the field and more like I'm able to lead.
What do you enjoy about the sport?
I really like the team and the group aspect. We always have fun out there, and I really like Central's soccer culture.
How would your teammates describe you?
Easygoing, responsible. I'm fast but I'm kind of quiet on the field. I like to lead more by example.
Do you have any pre-game rituals?
I listen to music and think about what I want to try to do that game. I try not to let the moment get too big and focus on playing my best and still having fun.
What's been the highlight of your Red Devil career?
Last year we had our playoff run and knocked out LT to advance. That was definitely the highlight of our soccer careers.
What's your post-Central plan?
I'm going to University of Kentucky to study computer science. I'm thinking about playing club and intramural soccer.
What's your advice to the team's underclassmen?
Be confident and play your game. Make sure you're flexible, too, to fit with others' playing style. And be accountable.
Why does coach Mike Wiggins like having Marquez on the squad?
Jake is one of our captains, who brings positivity, calm and confidence to our team in his role as a senior leader. I've always enjoyed his willingness to take coaching points and apply them to his individual development. His continuous improvement and competitiveness has shown well for us as he closes out his last season as a Red Devil.
- profile by Ken Knutson, photo by Jim Slonoff
