Badgering: Drew Conner
September 16, 2014 | Men's Soccer
Midfielder Drew Conner played an integral role in the Badgers reaching their first NCAA tournament in nearly two decades last season, starting all 21 games and finishing second on the team in assists (7). A team captain this season, the junior from Cary, Illinois, looks to help share his advice and experience with a young UW team that features 12 true freshmen.
You were part of a memorable ride last year that culminated in an NCAA tournament berth. What was one of your favorite memories or matches from last season?
It has to be between the Indiana and the DePaul games. Our game against the Hoosiers was a comeback win in front of a great home crowd. Not to mention they were defending national champions at the time. The DePaul game was unique, too, because we tied the game at the very last second and ended up winning in overtime. I've never been part of a game that came down to the actual last second.
What were you up to this offseason? By all accounts, you had a busy and successful summer.
This summer I was playing with the Chicago Fire PDL team. The team is made up of a lot of the best college soccer players across the country. Towards the end of the summer I got the opportunity to train with the professional team, which was a great experience.
You were elected a team captain this season, what does that role and responsibility mean to you?
It means a lot. I love being in a position where I can encourage and instill confidence in my teammates. Thankfully I have had some great captains during my time here at UW who have set the standard and really showed me what it means to lead.
There are a lot of new faces on the team this season. What’s some of advice you give to the new guys?
The advice I give them on the field is just to play their game. They just need to use their instincts and pay attention to the details. Sometimes young players doubt their abilities when they make the jump from the high school and academy level to the college game. I remind them that they're here for a reason.
What is one of your favorite things to do in Madison when you’re not studying or playing soccer?
I like to post up in the corner of Steep & Brew Coffee shop on State Street and dive into a really good novel.
