Getting to Know... Annie Taylor

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Annie Taylor is a first-year on the women’s lacrosse team. The Alexandria, Va., native was a first-team high school All-American and was named the 2008 Virginia State Player of the Year. The Journal News Lacrosse Player of the Year was also named the Most Outstanding Athlete in the St. Stephen’s/St. Agnes senior class. A member of the Tewaaraton Team, Taylor was also a member of the National Spanish Honors Society.

Question: How was your first fall ball experience? What was it like training with the coaching staff and the rest of the team?
Taylor: My first fall ball experience was absolutely nerve racking. I went into the fall so terrified of all of the phenomenal girls on the team, but I quickly discovered that all of the girls were there to help me through the transition. The practices were definitely a completely different level than high school, but the coaches are so hands on and honest that it was easy to adjust.

Question: How was your first semester on Grounds? What did you enjoy the most?
Taylor: My first semester was with out a doubt the most fun time in my life. It was such an amazing transition from my small high school with only 106 people in my graduating class. I love meeting new people so I had a ball meeting so many unfamiliar faces.

Question: What are you looking forward to this spring?
Taylor: I am looking forward to actually competing against other teams. I feel like I play against the best girls in the NCAA each day, and I can’t wait to see how we match up against other teams.

Question: What is your favorite thing about UVa and being a student-athlete?
Taylor: What I like about being a student athlete would have to be JPJ dinning hall. It has the best food and it is so convenient.

Question: What do you miss most about high school and home?
Taylor: What I miss most about home and high school are my friends and family. Being in college made me really appreciate the relationships I have back home. I also really miss my bed.

Question: What are your goals for the upcoming season?
Taylor: My goals for the upcoming season are to practice hard, improve my skills, and take advantage of any opportunities that might come my way.

Question: Why did you choose to play at Virginia?
Taylor: I chose to play at Virginia because UVa is one of the few schools that emphasize a balance between academics, lacrosse and social life. Also, I absolutely loved the team and I completely felt at home the moment I met them.

Question: What do you hope to accomplish before you graduate?
Taylor: Before I graduate, I want to immerse myself into the university to take advantage of all the school has to offer.