Indiana University Athletics
Q&A with Rich Balchan
8/17/2007 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
Aug. 17, 2007
After Friday morning's practice, iuhoosiers.com sat down with freshman midfielder Rich Balchan (Carmel, Ind./Carmel) to discuss his first few days of camp.
What have the first few days of practice been like for you?
"It is the hardest thing I have ever been through, but I am hanging in there and I know it will make me better in the long run."
How is the pace and style of play different at the collegiate level?
" The practices are much more intense. You have to be focused on the game every second at practice. I am concentrating on making crisp passes and perfecting other aspects of my game. You can never let up."
Is it helpful to have a former high school teammate (freshman Tyler McCarroll) around?
"Yes, it has really helped to break the ice and made it more comfortable. The guys here are a lot of fun and I am getting used to it, but it is helpful to have someone you know to make that transition."
What kind of goals have you set for yourself going into camp?
"I want to always think positively and try not to get down on myself too much. Everyone is going to have a bad day now and then. I want to try my best at all times."
What has surprised you most, or what have you encountered that you were not expecting?
"I didn't think the two-a-day practices would be so difficult. I trained all summer, but on the first day I had to step out toward the end. I am not used to this level of training, but I know it will make me a better player."
