ATHLETE PROFILE: Jonathan Hall
The men’s soccer team is 3–0 after winning its home opener last week against Westminster College. Leading that game in scoring with two goals was sophomore midfielder Jonathan Hall. The Tartan caught up with Hall after the team’s victory this weekend against Juniata College to talk about his contributions to the team.
Tartan: When did you start playing soccer and how did you get into the sport?
Hall: I started playing soccer when I was probably four or five in the youth YMCA league. The sport came natural to me, so that’s probably why I stuck with it. Also, my dad coached all of my teams until I was eleven. Having him involved made it all the more enjoyable when I was young.
T: What made you decide to play soccer in college?
H: I always knew I wanted to play college soccer. I was looking to play at every school I applied to. Playing and having success at the collegiate level was always my final goal when it came to soccer. I’m so thankful for the opportunity play competitively for a few more years.
T: Was soccer or the team itself any part of your decision to come to Carnegie Mellon?
H: My decision to come to Carnegie Mellon was both for academic and athletic reasons. I was completely sold on the high academic reputation of Carnegie Mellon and the business school, but I also felt like this was one of the best places in the country to play soccer. I saw that the soccer team was made up of a great group of guys, and we are fortunate enough to be a part of one of the most, if not the most, competitive Division III soccer conferences. Academically and athletically, Carnegie Mellon is a hard school to beat.
T: How are you handling the strenuous academic load on top of athletics?
H: So far, so good. I find that I have always been more organized and done better in the classroom during soccer season. I am forced to be a better time manager when so much of my schedule is taken up by practices and games.
T: Any rituals or pre-game superstitions?
H: I always listen to “Heart of A Champion” by Nelly before games. It gets me focused.
T: Is there anything in particular that you attribute your success to?
H: Definitely attribute any success I have to my parents. Soccer is an expensive and time-consuming sport to pursue. Growing up, they spent countless weekends traveling around the country so that I could play club soccer. I am so appreciative of all of the sacrifices they made for me. They’re model parents in my book.
T: Do you have a favorite place to play?
H: I love playing at home, first and foremost. My grandparents and some of my extended family make it to almost every game. However, my mom’s family is from St. Louis, and although I haven’t gotten to play there yet, I am looking forward to playing Wash. U. I think I might get some extra fan support.
T: Favorite thing to do during the off-season?
H: My friends and I like to get involved with IM sports during the off-season. Our team gets together to hang out a lot, as well. I’m a huge Pittsburgh sports fan, too.