Senior Maggie Hillman committed to University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign two and a half years ago for soccer. A brief version of this interview was run in CT’s March issue.

Central Times: How many years have you played soccer?

Maggie Hillman: Since I was six or seven, so 10 years.

CT: When did you realize that you could go D1?

MH: As a player on a club [soccer] team, they always encourage the idea so then you start thinking about it in eighth grade. Freshman year was when I really started looking into colleges and realizing maybe I can go and play. My coaches also talked to me and encouraged me.

CT: What was your reaction to knowing you could play D1 soccer?

MH: It was great because [soccer] is something I am really passionate about. Getting the opportunity to continue that in the next level is really exciting. It’s also really stressful. You have to commit to it and know it’s what you want.

CT: Why did you decide on U of I?

MH: I was looking at a few other places, but you go on visits. When I visited [U of I], I just fell in love with the coaches and the program. It’s also a good school so I will still get a good education there. It just seemed like the perfect fit and had everything I wanted.

CT: What are you most excited about for college soccer?

MH: Honestly, just joining the program. After being committed there for two years and seeing everything they’ve been able to do, I just want to be a part of that. It’s just a count down.

CT: What are you most nervous about for college soccer?

MH: Having to adjust because adjusting to college is hard enough and adding in sports is a whole new part of it.

CT: Do you have any plans post college for soccer?

MH: Not for soccer. I would love to keep playing, but not professionally. I’m looking to go to medical school so that’ll probably take over.

CT: What has it meant to you to play high school soccer?

MH: When I first wasn’t playing [for freshman and sophomore year], it was for college soccer. Now, having the experience to play high school is really great because the girls are so awesome. It’s a tight-knit group and you get to spend so much time together. It’s really exciting to represent your school because people look to you, and I really enjoy that part of it.

CT: Do you have any words of advice for underclassmen?

MH: It will all work out. You’ll know where you want to go. You’ll feel it.