Tucson, ARIZ. – The 2016 season has been different than the 2015 season for Arizona sophomore Cali Crisler. After tearing her hamstring in the first match of the 2015 season, Crisler didn't get much time on the pitch during the Wildcats record-breaking season in the NCAA tournament. This season, she has played in every single match and already has three goals, tied at the top of the Arizona roster.
"I think I am more comfortable this year," said Crisler. "I'm getting a lot more playing time too. Last year, I tore my hamstring in the first game of the year, which set me back and made returning more difficult. This year, I like combining with people and playing to feet. I can create chances for myself or for other people. Also, I used to play forward and now I'm playing outside mid, which allows me to get crosses or cut in and get shots, like how my last goal was."
But things are different for Crisler on more than just a personal level. The team has a whole new dynamic now.
"This year there are a lot more freshmen," said Crisler. "We lost our good center back in Sheaffer Skadsen and we also lost Hayley Estopare, who were dominant players on our team. I think that a lot of the freshmen came in and stepped up in those roles."
A youthful team doesn't seem to bother Crisler. If anything, she's more confident about her team's ability to succeed this season.
"I'm looking forward to making it to the tournament and making it farther than we did last season," said Crisler. "I think that we can do it with this team. We have figured out what is successful for us."
In the 2015 season, the Wildcats were 5-0 through five matches. This season, after an early defeat at the hands of Pepperdine in their season opener, the Wildcats are undefeated in their last four matches. Crisler is right, it seems the team and head coach Tony Amato have figured out where their success lies.
One part of that influence is the home crowd. Amato and his staff have done a great job of making game day at Mulcahy Stadium a real experience.
"It's really nice to have them there to build up the atmosphere," said Crisler. "It's more fun to play on Friday nights when people are there. It helps a lot knowing that the fans are there to support you and it builds up the intensity and the adrenaline. You can go out there and have fun and work hard."
Now it's your turn to Experience It Yourself at Arizona's home matches this season.You can pick up season tickets at ArizonaWildcats.com or purchase tickets at the door.
The Arizona Wildcats continue their regular season this weekend in Tucson, Ariz. at the Arizona Cats Classic. Arizona plays Northern Illinois at 7 p.m. MST on Friday, Sept. 9 and San Francisco at 1:30 p.m. MST on Sunday, Sept. 4.
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