Central College Athletics

Rachel Daniels
Geneseo, Ill.
Class of 2023

Why did you chose Central?

After attending The University of Iowa for my first semester of college, I chose Central because of the small campus and the community. I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my college experience at a school that allowed me to know my professors, to be on a team, and to feel supported. It’s cliché, but Pella just feels like home.

Favorite professor and why?

It’s so hard to pick a favorite professor because I have great relationships with a handful of them. I would have to say Dr. Shuger Fox is my favorite because she is encouraging and supportive while also having very high expectations and making sure we take responsibility for our work. She also is very knowledgeable in her field and goes above and beyond what is asked of her, not to mention the amount of time she spends listening to the students (like me) that show up to her office with personal problems to unpack.

You’re majoring in kinesiology because?

I am majoring in kinesiology because I have always loved learning about health and the human body. I find the complexities of the relationship between body, mind, and spirit extremely interesting, and it’s rewarding that I can apply what I learn directly to my own life.

Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?

I am involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and I work at the Spirit Shoppe.

Who are your go-to musical artists?

My go-to musical artists are Taylor Swift, Chris Tomlin, and Thomas Rhett.

How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?

Attending Central and playing a sport has impacted my life by allowing me to meet so many new people. From teammates to coaches to strength coaches to athletic trainers, I have found the sense of community that I was looking for in my college experience. My experience at Central wouldn’t be the same without that network of people.

Favorite non-soccer professional athlete?

Steph Curry I guess haha

The person past or present you’d like to have lunch with?

If I could have lunch with any person from the past or present, I would choose my grandma. We were pretty similar and I really miss our weekly conversations whether it was in person or over the phone. I’d love to catch up with her and hear all about heaven.

What do you refuse to share?

I refuse to share my jar of peanut butter.

Pancheros or chipotle?

Unpopular opinion, but neither. I would rather have homemade tacos.

Favorite TV Show

My favorite TV show is This Is Us.

What’s it like to play for Coach Koby?

In addition to all the logistical soccer stuff, playing for Coach Koby consists of lots of 80s music, nicknames, and matching. He cares a lot about our program and our players and there’s never a dull moment.

What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central women’s soccer?

My favorite part of being a member of CCWS is that you are part of a family. Everyone has your best interest in mind and makes sure you are supported both on and off the field. I also love spending time with my teammates in the locker room and on the bus during season. 

What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?

Ten years from now, I hope to be a dentist either in Pella or somewhere that doesn’t have snow! I’m not a fan of winter.

Favorite food from Central Market

My favorite food from Central Market is the CTO avocado toast every other Thursday morning, which I always eat with Quinn Deahl.

Bucket list

I would like to see the Northern Lights at some point.