Junior attacker Meghan Plunkett may not get as much attention as some of her high-scoring teammates, but she is vital to Northwestern’s success.
She started her first game in the first round of the NCAA tournament, replacing the injured Danielle Spencer, and has two goals on the season.
As the Wildcats prepare for this weekend’s Final Four in Plunkett’s hometown of Towson, Md., the DAILY’s Brian Regan asked her a few questions about going home, lacrosse and Rollerblading.
Daily Sports: The Final Four is in your hometown of Towson. What does that mean for you?
Meghan Plunkett: It’s definitely awesome having it in my hometown. All my friends and family will be there and it is exciting to know the ropes, the setting, and knowing what we are expecting with the hotel and everything.
The Daily: Have you shared your knowledge with your teammates?
MP: Yes. They’ve been asking the size (of the city) and what’s the weather is going to be like – nicer than Evanston – and what the restaurants are like for their parents.
The Daily: After coming off the bench for much of the season, what was it like to start at home?
MP: It’s exciting getting to run through the tunnel and being on your home field, and it was an awesome experience. But it’s also a little bittersweet, since we have some injuries. I hope (the injured players) are back this weekend, since we want to put our best players on the field.
The Daily: What was your most memorable game at NU?
MP: It was my freshman year Final Four against Duke, where we won in overtime, and it was the most exciting game I’ve ever been a part of – and I didn’t play. It was great being on the sidelines because the energy was unbelievable.
The Daily: Lakeside Field is gorgeous, but what is your favorite place to play when you are not at home?
MP: I’d say it is Cal-Berkeley. We got to play in the football stadium, and it also overlooks San Francisco Bay. It was an unbelievable place to play.
The Daily: Why did you choose lacrosse?
MP: I love the team aspect of it. I love coming out here, and there are eleven of us to work with. Basketball is fun, but there are only five (players) and I just really like the big team aspect. I love the fast-paced nature and not getting a rest. Running for 60 minutes is probably the best part.
The Daily: What do you think you bring to the team?
MP: I try to bring a smile and a positive attitude everyday. I know some games I’m not going to play and others I’ll play more, but I try to bring that happiness to practice, because it’s contagious and it can make another person’s day better.
The Daily: Does it take effort to be happy all the time?
MP: I think it’s easier to be sad and walk around in your own little world, but if you can put in the extra effort it changes your whole day and makes people feel better.
The Daily: You are always Rollerblading. Where does that come from?
MP: It started with the older girls. Girls had always been Rollerblading because it’s so much faster than walking and we already have hectic schedules. Plus, it’s good exercise and a good way for those of us who do it to bond.
We do get made fun of a little, but (the 12 of us) embrace it. We have a thing called “Kids on Wheels,” (players) who are always on our bikes, skateboards and Rollerblades. It’s a fun little unit.
