Q&A: Former coach and teacher goes pro

Abbie M, Sports Editor

Prewitt online

If you were given the chance to go pro in your favorite sport, you would take it, right? That is exactly what happened to former English teacher, Lauren Prewitt, this past summer. She was given the opportunity to go pro in Soccer, and she has not looked back since.

Q: What team do you play for?

A: I play for the WPSL [Women’s Premiere Soccer League] Elite Houston Aces. We hope to get moved up to the NWSL [National Women’s Soccer League] but won’t know if  we get the bid until a few months after that season is over.

 

Q: When did you start playing soccer?

A: When I was 7.

 

Q: How did you become pro?

A: It was a long process. I played semi-pro for several seasons and even attended a WPS combine. When the Houston Aces formed two seasons ago, I tried out and then when we became professional this year, I was invited back to the team.

 

Q: How did you feel when you became pro?

A: Surreal. It is almost unreal because I had been dreaming about it for about 12 years and I never thought I would get the opportunity.

 

Q: What’s it like playing soccer for a living?

A: In season is really busy, but I love being part of a team. It is a lot of commitment and sacrifice. Right now we are in the off season, so it is a lot of training on my own and working to promote the team.

 

Q: Do you get to travel?

A: Yes. We mainly traveled regionally but also made a few trips to California and the Midwest this season. Our travel schedule should be heavier next season.

 

Q: How often do you practice with your team?

A: In season it is at least three times a week with fitness on days we don’t train. Then, we have two games per week.

 

Q: How well do you get along with your teammates?

A: I love them and being part of a team! We are one big family.

 

Q: When are some things you like to do when you’re not playing soccer?

A: Nap, cook, read, and hang out with family and friends.

 

Q: If you didn’t play soccer, what sport would you play?

A: There are other sports besides soccer? I would probably run track.

 

Q: Do you have any pre-game rituals?

A: I always have to put on my cleats and shin guards in the same order, and listen to Florence + the Machine and Imagine Dragons before games this season. I also spend a lot of time visualizing before games.

 

Q: How many people usually attend games?

A: Not enough! We need more fans!

 

Q: What is your schedule like now that you’re pro?

A: I’m in the off season now, so I train for a local club, workout daily and do anything I can to promote the team. There is a lot of down time at the moment.

 

Q: Will you miss teaching at all?

A: Yes, It was a huge part of my life for 6 years. I will definitely miss it and I will especially miss the soccer girls. I may go back one day, but for now I had to take a chance on an opportunity to pursue my life’s dream that may never come again!