Graduation: Two different paths to one goal
Texas Soccer student-athletes Carrie Schmit and Stephanie Connors took two different roads to the Fall 2007 graduation ceremony that took place on Saturday, Dec. 8. Schmit took the traditional road, playing all four seasons on the Forty Acres (2003-06). The La Mesa, Calif. native led the Longhorns to the Round of 16 twice in her career and helped bring home the first of two consecutive Big 12 Soccer Championships. She left her mark in three categories of the UT record book. The Grossmont High School product finished her playing career tied for second in games started (84) and tied for fourth in career games played (87). She is also tied for ninth with 13 career assists. "Graduating from college is obviously really important," said Schmit, at a T-Association ceremony for Fall graduates and their families. "Texas is a very challenging school. I didn't know what I was getting myself into. When I first got here, I didn't know only the top 10 percent could come here. It feels good to graduate from one of the best schools in the nation. "They have really good programs and great professors and teachers," she continued. "The fact that I'm graduating hasn't hit me yet and I don't think I realize how helpful this degree will be once I head into the real world. I just know that the level of academics and the experience here prepares you for whatever career you choose." Schmit, who received a degree in kinesiology and health education, will play professionally for Afturelding under head coach Garreth O'Sullivan in the Women's Premier Division in Rekjavic, Iceland. Connors joined the team this season after playing club soccer for Texas and attending UT-Arlington. In her first year competing at the Division I level, the Carrollton, Texas native backed up two-time All-Big 12 Tournament MVP Dianna Pfenninger in goal. She saw action in four games totaling 41 minutes. She ended her season with one goal allowed, two saves and a .667 save percentage. The highlight of the season for the 2003 Hebron High School graduate came in a 2-0 loss at Texas A&M on Oct. 14. Connors stepped in for Pfenninger, who left the game after injuring herself in a collision, and allowed one goal in 18 minutes of action. "One of my goals this season was to play against the Aggies," said Connors. "Unfortunately, Dianna got hurt towards the end of the game but it gave me the chance to help my team. I was ready to come in at any moment and play hard." With her bachelor's degree in advertising, Connors will join the rest of the Class of 2007 in entering the workforce.
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