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The University of Mississippi Athletics
In The Spotlight: Sara Schauberger
10/12/1999 | Soccer
Oct. 12, 1999
By Joshua Provosty
Ole Miss Sports Information Student Assistant
For many, the term "walk-on" conjures up images
of long practices on the scout team and endless hours of preparation with no playing time in sight.
But, junior forward Sara Schauberger has battled the odds and become an established member of the Ole Miss soccer team.
Schauberger, a native of Russellville, Ky., walked on to the soccer team midway into the 1997 season and has made the most of her opportunity, playing in seven games that season.
After appearing in 17 matches in 1998, Schauberger was voted the team's Most Inspirational Player and also earned the Most Valuable Player Award as the squad's top defender.
"Basically, I feel that every person has their position on the field, whether you're on the bench or in the starting lineup, you're an important part of the team,"Schauberger said.
After watching Schauberger develop her skills over the past two years Ole Miss head coach Steve Holeman knows what Schauberger brings to the team.
"Sara is an invaluable member of the Rebels' success this season. She has a very positive influence on the team, and makes us better on and off the field" Holeman said.
So far this season, making the team better has meant an overall 11-3 record with an impressive 4-1 mark in the Southeastern Conference. The Rebels already have key victories against Auburn, Alabama and in-state rival Mississippi State this season.
Academically, Schauberger is the epitome of the term student-athlete, boasting a 4.0 grade point average. She has twice been named to the Chancellor's Honor Roll, and was selected to the SEC Academic Honor Roll last year. Scheduled to graduate next year, Schauberger is thinking about post-graduate-studies.
"I'm a marketing major and am thinking about going to law school. I am toying with those two right now," Schauberger said.
Whether it's on the field or in the classroom, Schauberger has excelled with her determination and versatility.
"Wherever we need her, that is were she plays," Holeman said.
Heading into the stretch run of the season, this small-town girl has made it big time in the SEC and will continue to be a major part of the Lady Rebels' success this season.