Anderson, S.C – Former Anderson University women's soccer standout Lauren Allan lands on W-League team, which is the highest tier of women's professional soccer in Australia.
Allan played for the Trojans during the 2017 season, leading the team in scoring with six goals. The native of Newcastle, Australia helped the Black and Gold secure a berth in the SAC Tournament semifinals while Allen's stellar play landed her on the SAC All-Conference Second Team.
Following her time at Anderson, Allan returned home to finish her degree and earn Australian credentials in the medical field. After joining a club soccer team, she was noticed by the Newcastle Jets. Allen has worked her way onto the Jets roster and is enjoying her first season as a member of their team.
Allan recently took time to answer a few questions about her experience in the interview below:
- What is the best part about playing in the W-League?
Playing at the W-League level has given me the opportunity to play against players from the Matilda's [Australian National Team] that I have looked up to throughout my years playing. Also, getting to play in the big named stadiums is a surreal experience.
- What is the biggest challenge you have faced playing in the W-League?
Having confidence in myself about playing in such a high league as it can be challenging and daunting, but at the same time it helps you grow as a player. Additionally, adapting to the commitment in terms of juggling work, university, and soccer is a bit of a struggle, but is manageable and worthwhile in the end.
- How did playing soccer in the USA prepare you?
I first played at Butler Community College where my coach, Adam Hunter, challenged me from the get-go. He showed me the level I needed to be at in order to be successful and compete at the highest level. At Anderson Coach Julie and Coach Sarah continually supported me as I transitioned onto the team and helped me progress physically and, most importantly, mentally. I gained a new found confidence from playing at Anderson. The level of soccer in the USA and being a student-athlete allowed the move into the w-league to be much smoother and easier which I am very grateful for.
- Who is your favorite player to watch or play with/against in the league?
My favorite player at the moment is Hayley Raso. I love her work ethic on the field and how she continually plays at such a high intensity for the full 90 minutes. In addition, she is always creating and scoring goals.
- What are your plans in the future in terms of career and soccer?
I'm currently working on a degree in Medical Radiation Science (Diagnostic Radiography) at the University of Newcastle. Once I graduate, I hope to land a job in a hospital in Newcastle where I will hopefully continue to play in the w-league for a few more seasons.
- Any advice to girls who want to get to the next level?
Take every opportunity that comes your way and don't be afraid to take risks in order to better yourself, or to go out of your comfort zone. Set goals for yourself both on and off the field to be better, identify your own strengths and weaknesses and build from there. Also make sure that you establish a support network around yourself too as having a confident and healthy mind is just as important as being physically fit.
