Q&A: Steffen Kraus transitions from European-style soccer to fast-paced, American style

Kraus has adapted to the American style of soccer after learning the sport in his native Germany (Photo by Gopi Raghu).
Kraus has adapted to the American style of soccer after learning the sport in his native Germany (Photo by Gopi Raghu).

Steffen Kraus

Hometown: Stuttgart, Germany

Age: 20

Year: Freshman

Major: Marketing

Position: Goalkeeper

Q: How did you get into soccer? 

A: I'm playing soccer for my whole life. I started to play when I was 4 years old. I don't really know how I got into it; I guess everybody is doing it in Europe as little kids.

 

Q: What are the major differences between playing soccer in Germany vs. playing soccer in America? How have you adjusted to these changes?

A: It's more athletic in the US. I did a lot of lifting during the summer.

 

Q: Why did you decide to play soccer in America?

A: Because you can connect athletics and academics here. In Germany it's impossible to play soccer on a high level and to go to college.

 

Q: What was the recruitment process like?

A: I had to do a lot of paperwork. I had to do all the stuff for the NCAA and I talked a lot to coach John [O'Hara].

 

Q: What did being named A-10 soccer rookie of the week mean to you?

A: I don't care about that that much, I mean it's kind of nice to read it, but I want to have success with my team, that's most important for me.

 

Q: What is your ultimate goal with soccer?

A: First of all I just want to play a successful season; I want to get into the NCAA tournament with the team and after that I'll see.

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