Senior defender Megan McQueeny is a humble, easygoing girl off the field, but once she puts on her cleats and jersey, she becomes a leader who possesses a raw determination to win.

With the talent and skills McQueeny holds when a soccer ball is at her feet, one would think she has been playing her whole life.

The truth is, she didn’t start playing soccer until she was 7 years old.

As the youngest of four siblings, McQueeny was never forced into the world of sports by her parents.

“I started playing soccer late … when I was 7. My parents didn’t push me to play any sports since my older siblings weren’t into sports,” McQueeny said.

Growing up, she always wanted to do everything her older brother did. When her brother casually began playing soccer with his friends, it was the motivation McQueeny needed to begin playing the sport she would one day dominate.

In high school, McQueeny won four varsity letters and was named the Redwood Empire’s co-player of the year in 2007 for helping her team to the CIF North Coast Section semifinals. In addition, she was also a three-time All-North Bay League first-team selection.

Since joining the San Diego State women’s soccer team in 2008, her success on the field has only improved.

As a leader of the backline, McQueeny has held a starting position on the squad since freshman year.

With a cutthroat mentality that can be sensed from the stands, it is only fair to ask what keeps SDSU’s captain motivated day in and day out.

“The natural competitiveness of the game definitely motivates me but my teammates are who pump me up most,” she said.

With a recent injury to her femur, all McQueeny can think about is stepping back onto the field with her teammates.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be back in three weeks,” McQueeny said. “But for now, I’m focused on cheering the girls on from the bench and keeping the morale positive and enthusiastic.”

Through setbacks and injuries, McQueeny doesn’t let anything slow her down. Her hardworking demeanor and genuine love for her teammates proves that it is possible to be a team leader and team player.

McQueeny truly embodies the qualities of a team captain and an athlete worth recognition.