During NCAA Division III Week (April 7-13), UW-Eau Claire Athletics is posting spotlights from select Blugolds each day throughout the week. Today's post features Megan Hanson, who competes in women's soccer.
Name: Megan Hanson
Hometown/High School: Verona, Wis./Verona Area
Year: Sophomore
Sport: Soccer
Major: Nursing
Why did you choose to be a Division III student-athlete?
Soccer has always been a key factor in my life. It seems to be the one thing that always stays constant when everything else around me is changing. I know I wanted to continue playing in college, while also pursuing my academic dream of going to school to become a nurse. UW-Eau Claire and Division III soccer provided the perfect balance for me.
What do you like most about competing in the WIAC?
There is a great level of competition—I get to play with and compete against some high-level athletes who play the game for no other reason than their love of the game. Plus, I am able to create a ton of life-long friendships.
What is the greatest lesson you have learned from being a student-athlete?
I have learned that you can't control everything in life. You have to relieve yourself of the worries of things you can't control and do your best at the things you can. In soccer and life, you can always control your attitude and effort.
Who has been the most influential person in your athletic career?
My mother. She passed away the summer before I went to college, she encouraged me to pursue soccer beyond high school because she knew how much I enjoyed it and what a positive effect it had on my life. Being a PE teacher, she was the epitome of a healthy lifestyle and raised me to be the happiest and healthiest person I can be.
If you have been involved in community service projects, which project has been the most rewarding and why?
I volunteered at a homeless shelter is New York City over the summer. It really opened my eyes and showed me how fortunate I am.
If you could meet any athlete, who would it be and what one question would you ask them?
Michael Phelps. When your muscles are exhausted and you're all out of breath, what drives you to continue working hard to finish your race?
What is your greatest sports moment?
Winning state in high school.
What is/are your favorite TV shows?
Criminal Minds and Law and Order: Special Victims Unit
What is/are your favorite foods?
Salmon
If you could live any place in the world, where would it be?
Right here in Wisconsin. I had a great childhood in the Madison area and I also love it here in Eau Claire. Why would I want to move anywhere else?
What does your "bucket list" include?
I would love to be able to see an Olympic games, hold a real, live panda bear, and be able to travel around the world as a nurse.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
To be able to fly.
How would your teammates describe you?
Competitive, hard-working, dedicated.
Do you have any pre-game/pre-event rituals? If so, what are they?
I play center defense with one of my best friends. We have a handshake we do before every game.
What is your dream job?
To be a nurse in a foreign country.
