UR Men’s Soccer (URMS) has gotten out to a blistering 7–0–1 undefeated start to their 2016 season. Sophomore Bryce Ikeda scored the winning penalty goal against RIT in the annual Hillside Shield game on September 17th and, on Tuesday, scored another game-winner at Alfred University. UAA action continues on the road next Saturday against the University of Chicago, as UR preps for the most daunting stretch of the regular season.
Why soccer? How did this sport become an integral part of your life?
When I was little, I tried a little bit of every sport—basketball, baseball, swimming, etc.—but soccer was the one I looked forward to the most. I connected the best with the guys on my soccer team, and I’m still best friends with most of them to this day. Eventually, when I got to the age where I needed to pick one sport to focus on, I chose soccer, and it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made.
When did you first find out about UR? When were you sold on coming here?
I first found out about the UR when I was looking for colleges my junior/senior year of high school. I knew I wanted to become an engineer, play soccer, and live in a cold environment, so the University had everything I was looking for. Once I made my visit, and after Coach Chris Apple, Coach Jack Burgasser, and my teammate Pete Martin showed me around, I decided I loved the soccer program, the campus, and the academics. I wanted to be a part of it.
How did it feel to be a solid team contributor as a freshman last year and step into a key role as a sophomore?
At first, as a freshman, I was just happy to get playing time, but as the season went on, I found that it wasn’t enough for me to play for myself to get playing time, but to play for the team so we could be the best we can be. This year, we have really been able to come together and play for each other, making this season the most fun so far.
What has been the most memorable moment of your UR Soccer career so far?
The most memorable moment I’ve had so far was scoring my first goal during the Community Shield game against RIT. We received a penalty kick during overtime and no one was moving to get the ball to take the kick, so I decided I would. I was really nervous, my heart was pounding, and I was thinking to myself: “Why did I choose to take the kick?” But when I scored the goal to win the game, it felt amazing.
Would you prefer to visit Earth in 2100 or travel back to 1900, and why?
I would prefer to visit Earth in 2100 because 1900 wouldn’t have invented any of my favorite foods yet. I’m also only 19, so there’s still a possibility that I could actually visit Earth in 2100, so that’s another plus!
