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Aug. 14, 2001
Charlottesville– Upon her last year as a Virginia soccer player, midfielder Kathleen “Katie” Tracy (Richmond, Va.) entered the first professional US women’s soccer league, the Women’s United Soccer Association (the WUSA), as a member of the New York Power in March 2001. Tracy attended training camp in late March to prepare for the opening game, which took place April 22. By graduation (which she was not able to attend) Tracy had played in three games as a professional and was headed for another game against the San Diego Spirit.
Tracy admitted that as a rookie, she has a lot to learn but maintained that the experience is worth it.
“Being a newcomer has been a significant transition in a lot of ways,” she said. “I’m living in a new place and I’m forced to play at a higher level. At the same time it’s a dream come true, so while I’m adjusting, I’m not struggling with it.”
Tracy described her experience in her first pro game as one that she will never forget.
“I was shocked to even get in, so at first I was extremely nervous,” she said. “But once I warmed up and got focused, I was just relaxed.”
In terms of her preparation for a game, Tracy’s routine has had a slight change.
“The only real difference is that I have more time to prepare and focus,” she said. “At UVa, I often had school or work to do on game days, but here I’m completely free from distractions.”
In comparison to college level, Tracy acknowledged that practice is different due to the change in her environment and the age level of the players.
“Practices are similar in structure but slightly more intense,” she said. “The real difference is the level of play because this league is a step up from the college level. The difference off the field is the range in age. I’m the youngest at 22 and the oldest is 33.”
Although Tracy said that her level of stress is lower than when she was in college, remaining a pro player can also be a difficult goal to accomplish.
“I think college was more stressful because I had so many time commitments and school work,” she said. “Up here I only have soccer, but I think the WUSA has been a little harder in that I’m establishing myself as an important member of the team and playing time has been less consistent.”
Fan support has been a positive aspect on Tracy’s progression from college to pro league.
“The league has been a success,” she said. “The fans are very supportive and excited about professional women’s soccer and quality role models for young children.”
In return, Tracy has welcomed the concept of being a professional role model for both women and children.
“I embrace the idea of being a role model,” she said. “I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for someone as fortunate as I am to give back to others. It also keeps me very accountable for my actions and how I treat others.”
Aside from the pro soccer life, Tracy has spent part of her time with fellow WUSA teammates and roommates exploring New York City.
“I currently live on Long Island with two teammates and it’s great,” said Tracy. “New York is a fascinating city, so while I’m here I want to take full advantage of it. As often as possible, I try to go into Manhattan to visit museums and parks.”
As the season approaches an end, Tracy will have a chance to help her team gain the first national championship as they enter the semifinal round of the playoffs, August 18. As soon as the season ends, Tracy plans to return to the University as a student teacher.