First Year Feature - Women's Soccer
Introducing this week's first year feature Niah Kuehne from the women's soccer team!
The transition from high school to university athletics is significant. We’re highlighting first year athletes from all varsity teams this season who are on the path to achieving greatness here at Dalhousie University.
This week we would like to introduce Niah, a first year on the women's soccer team. Hailing from Surrey British Colombia, Niah is studying arts & social sciences at Dal.
How long have you been playing soccer?
I have been playing soccer for 9 years!
How did you start playing soccer or get into it?
I got into soccer after being involved in track and field. I enjoyed the running aspect of track and decided to give soccer a try. Especially once all my friends started to join.
Did you play any other sports growing up?
I was heavily involved in track and field and gymnastics for around three years!
Who is somebody in soccer you admired growing up and why?
I strongly admired and looked up to Cristine Sinclair. She is a native to British Columbia, which caught my attention at the beginning. I started to watch her play when I was younger and followed her on her journey and amazing accomplishments. Her leadership and hard work inspired me to be a better player.
What is the most memorable moment in your career so far?
My most memorable and soccer highlight was training with the U17 Women’s Freiburg academy in Germany. That experience helped me to set specific goals and targets for myself, which pushed me to take risks that I might not have otherwise taken in my soccer career.
What made you choose Dalhousie University?
There were several factors that helped me to choose Dalhousie University. First, coach Cindy’s experience and resume were beyond impressive. In my communication with her, I knew she was someone I wanted to play for and learn from. Secondly, Dalhousie has a fantastic reputation academically, which was a part of my decision. Lastly, I have been visiting Nova Scotia every year since I was born due to my large extended family that resides here. My love for this province continued to grow and I knew I would be happy to live here.
Did any of your family members attend Dalhousie University?
None of my family attended Dalhousie.
How has the transition from high school sports to university sports been for you so far?
It has been a relatively seamless transition from high school to university because I was playing League 1 soccer in BC during the summer, which helped me develop the skills to play against older girls.
How do you balance academics and sports?
Personally, creating a schedule and being able to be disciplined with said schedule is a huge part of being able to stay balanced.
What are some of your interests outside of sports?
My main interests are reading, going to the gym, listening to music and hanging out with friends or family!
Any pre-event superstitions/routines?
Yes! I am very supersites with how I get ready for a game. For instance, I have a system of putting on my shin pad covers, socks, shin pads, and cleats in a specific order. In addition, I listen to a certain playlist every game day, and I must take out all my earrings before I arrive for warm up.
Any hidden talents?
Unfortunately, no!
Fast Fact Questions
Favourite food?
Pasta
Favourite movie?
How to Lose a Guy In 10 Days
Favourite warm-up song or current favourite song?
Currently my favorite song is “Scared to Start” by Michael Marcagi.
Favourite professional athlete or team?
Christine Sinclair!
If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?
I would be in Greece as it is a place I have always wanted to visit.
Favorite class this semester?
Political Sciences or Social Studies!