Virginia Tech junior Emily Jukich has been playing soccer since she was five years old. The Clifton, Va., native has scored more goals this season than the past two combined. She took time to talk with theACC.com about the Virginia Tech family and soccer.
What is something that most people don't know about you?
I really like to cook. I want to go to culinary school one day. I like making anything. I just like to be in the kitchen. One of my favorite dishes to make is my mom's gumbo.
When and how did you start playing soccer?
Quick Facts
Favorite Movie: Love Actually
Favorite Pro Athlete: Derek Jeter
Favorite Pregame Music: Rap
Favorite Pregame Meal: A Sandwich
Favorite Place on Campus: Soccer field |
I started playing when I was five. I have an older brother and he started playing soccer around the same time. I always wanted to do everything he did, so I followed him.
Did you play any other sports in high school?
I played basketball for one year. Soccer was my main sport.
What club team did you play on? Any ODP?
I played for the Prince William Cardinals (out of Prince William County, Va.). My last year of eligibility, we won the state championship, the regional championship and made it to nationals. We lost in the finals.
The Nationals were in Texas. It was really fun. We went down for a couple of days. We went to a bunch of restaurants and got to see how different Texas was from Virginia. It was my first time being there. It was a whole different world. We got to experience that and not just play soccer. It was really fun.
Why did you choose Virginia Tech?
I chose Virginia Tech because of the incredible family atmosphere. Not just in the soccer program, but in the community of Blacksburg and the community at Virginia Tech. It is just a really warm, family atmosphere. It is something I thought I could be a part of.
What do you do when you're not playing soccer?
I hang out with my friends, cook, do my homework.
Even though it is a year away, what do you want to do after college?
I might be a high school teacher. I could stay another year and get my social studies/education certification. I might also go to culinary school.
Who is your most influential role model?
My mom. She is a very dedicated, compassionate and committed person and she has taught me a lot of things about life. She is very hard working and always is there to push me through soccer, but didn't push me to where I didn't like it. She was there to support me, not criticize.
What is the best advice you have ever received from a coach?
To always rely on hard work and your work ethic. If you are having an off-game or your touch isn't right, if you're working hard that can make up for everything.
What is your most memorable moment in sports?
This season is my most memorable. So far, it has been a great season, one of our best seasons to this point. This team is (made of) my best friends and such a great atmosphere. I'm happy to see us succeeding. So far, this has been a great ride that I'm really enjoying. Looking back, it would be state championships in high school and going to Nationals with my club team.
What has allowed you to score more goals so far this season than the last two seasons combined?
Persistence over a couple of years. Working hard and finding my role within the team. Coach has emphasized everyone doing their job. I am just trying to do my part to help the team. That is what has helped me succeed.
What does the team still hope to accomplish this season?
Our goal is to make it to the ACC Tournament and get a bid for the NCAAs and compete in the postseason, win a couple of games there.
Jukich and the Hokies return to action on Sunday at Boston College.
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