TDP Sports (TDPS): Best memory in your time with the program?
Micheline Figel (MF): It has to be beating Middlebury College last year in the Elite 8. They were the No. 1 team, and we ended their season. I've never felt like that in my life. It was one of my greatest moments.
TDPS: What impact has Coach Regina Wills had on your career here?
MF: We have come a long way with her. We started out my first year just trying to win the South Coast Athletic Conference, and that was a big deal. Now we compete to go far in the NCAA. She's deserved every one of her wins. She didn't do it for herself.
TDPS: So, you just played your last collegiate game. How do you plan to stay involved with the sport?
MF: I told Taylor [Helms], we should start a club or something. There's adult leagues that I plan to play for. Chicago has a few, and there are tournaments out there as well. I have to keep playing. I literally feel like I have so much more in me.
TDPS: You scored what happened to be the game winning goal in the NCAC championship. What was going through your head at that moment?
MF: The first half we were playing well, and after the second goal [scored by Figel], I didn't think it was going to be the game winner. I didn't realize it until later that night when my mom posted it on Facebook. It always feels good to score, and even better when it's for an NCAC title.
TDPS: Give us as unbiased of a prediction as possible for next year's team.
MF: We had a deep bench this year. Our coach subbed more than I've experienced. Playing time during the game is huge. I think next year we definitely have a chance of getting the NCAC [title]. They're going to lose the defense they've had all four years, and [junior goalkeeper Maggie Steele] really enjoys having them back there. But they have good players returning and they're not going to expect anything different. We lost Margeret [Ellis] last year, and people stepped up. I'm expecting the same next year.