Northwestern State University’s women’s soccer team practices for hours in preparation for games and their championship at the Southland Conference. The team is coached by Ian Brophy, Jessica Nei and Alex Speight and is captained by Emily Mougia, Madison Murphy and Kylie Morris.

Emily Mougia, a senior health and exercise science major, has played soccer since she was 4 years old and completed her second year as captain of NSU’s soccer team. Even with a leg injury, she captained the team off the field. “This offers me a new perspective, and I get to be a supportive person for these girls on the sideline,” Mougia said.

Mougia enjoys listening to 2000s music while she practices and loves spending time with the girls. “I love all my relationships with all the girls on the team. Being able to lead them through everything has been such an honor and a great experience,” Mougia said.

Madison Murphy is a junior communication major who has played soccer for 17 years. This is her first year as captain, and Murphy learned a lot about leadership through this position. “I realized that I am a leader, and I need to lead by example whether that’s on or off the field,” Murphy said. “I feel like I have to push myself even harder because I’ve put a higher expectation on myself.”

Murphy’s favorite part of the team is traveling for the championship. “We’re with each other 24/7 for three days, and for 90 minutes we’re grinding it on the field and doing our best to just support one another,” Murphy said.

Kylie Morris is a senior biology major who has loved playing soccer since she was 3 years old, and just completed her first year as captain. “I just love the sport so much. You get built-in friends with competitiveness, and personally, it’s the best of both worlds,” Morris said.

Morris says playing soccer is worth it for a multitude of reasons. “You grow as a human being by learning patience, humility and hard work,” Morris said.

NSU’s soccer team has a field of dedicated players ready to set goals and make them happen. “And as always, Fork’ Em Demons,” Morris said.