Matt Formica
Senior marketing major Brittany Bock has played an integral role in leading the Notre Dame women’s soccer team to the top of the national polls this season. The success is nothing new for Bock, who has been one of the most prolific players for the Irish. Last season, Bock became the third women’s soccer player in university history to couple All-America and Academic All-America honors in the same season. She was also the co-recipient of the Big East’s Offensive Player of the Year award. In addition to competing for the Fighting Irish, Bock has played at the international level and is currently a member of the U.S. Under-23 National Team.
What sparked your interest in soccer, and did you feel immediately attracted to the sport?
I started playing when I was about five years old. Growing up, I played a lot of soccer with my sister. I actually played several sports when I was younger, such as basketball and volleyball, but I always felt that I was the best at soccer. As a sophomore in high school, I started making some national level teams, which caused me to get really excited because I realized that I could possibly have a future in soccer.
How did it feel to be recognized for both your athletic and academic accomplishments last season?
It is definitely an honor to me. Coming to this university, I knew it would be a challenge to excel in school because it’s hard to get into, and the students are all smart. Being recognized shows that I’ve been putting effort into my studies while dealing with a pretty busy schedule. Although I’m not the smartest in every subject, I try to stay focused in school. I spend a lot of time practicing, but I always try to find time for academics as well.
Notre Dame’s athletics Web site describes you as a “fearless player.” Can you discuss the importance of eliminating fear when you set foot on the field?
Every match I go into I have a “take no prisoners” mentality. It’s important to go into the game knowing that you’re going to win. I consider myself a physical player, and I really enjoy being aggressive and going into tackles as hard as I can and doing everything I possibly can to beat my opponent. When you play like this, bumps and bruises are kind of inevitable, but I think I can take a lot of pain and also dish out some on the field.
How does collegiate competition differ from international competition?
College soccer is very fast-paced and high pressure. Competing at the international level, I’ve found that each country has a different playing style. The American style is physical and fitness-oriented, while the Brazilian style is more skilled. International teams really play soccer as a beautiful sport. I enjoy playing other countries to expose myself to their different styles of play, and I try to bring aspects of those styles back here.
What are your aspirations beyond college?
I definitely want to play at the professional level after college. I’ve always wanted to play in the Olympics, so that’s something I’ll work toward. I really want to continue playing soccer until my body won’t allow me to do so anymore. When that happens I think I’ll pursue a career within sports, probably in marketing, which is my major.
