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The Sophia Lodovici Interview (Mount Airy, MD)


ANDERSON, SC -- Sophia Anderson is finally at the RPN.

Yes, I made that up on the spot, but it still applies that Sophie Lodovici has officially joined.

Lodovici is a 5-11 defender from Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, by way of Mount Airy, MD. She's currently a sophomore at Anderson University, who are members of the South Atlantic Conference (SAC). A Northern High School alum, Lodovici was one of the top players in the Mid-Penn Conference the last few years through her versatile and leadership approach on the backline. Earning many honors including All-Conference and All Star selections.

The RPN caught up with the Anderson sophomore in an interview about her first year experience and the outlook heading into year two.

Sophie Lodovici Interview
When did you first kick a ball?
"I first started kicking a ball when I was around five years old. It all began when my parents put me on our local soccer team, the Dillsburg Area Soccer Club. From that moment on, I was hooked and haven’t stopped playing since. I joined Keystone FC, once I got older, and started to realize soccer was something serious to me. That initial spark ignited a lifelong passion for the sport. Driving me to continuously improve and pursue opportunities to play competitively."


What is your role, or responsibilities on the field?
"As a center back, my primary role is to organize the defense, maintain the line's structure, and of course prevent the opposition from creating goal-scoring opportunities. I take pride in my leadership on the field. Constantly communicating with my teammates to ensure everyone is in the right position, organized, and ready for any moment of attack. As a defender, a lot of responsibility is put on your back. If a mistake was made or a goal was scored, you're the first to blame. That’s why I like it. I will take accountability for a goal being scored, and will work my hardest to win tackles, mark key attackers, intercept passes, because it’s all for my teammates."

"Athletically, I bring a strong aerial ability to win headers." Lodovici continued. "I have great patient individually defending, speed to cover ground quickly, track players, and agility to respond to fast-paced movements. My tall physicality helps in duels, while my tactical awareness and leadership ensure our defense operates as a cohesive unit."


How was life growing up in Dillsburg?
"I was born in Maryland, but at about 5 months old, my family and I moved to a small 'hick' town in Pennsylvania. Dillsburg is a very small town, but growing up in a small town was a unique and enriching experience. The tight-knit community meant that everyone knew each other. Fostering a strong sense of support and belonging. Our traditions like Farmers Fair, the Pickle Drop, and many more made the down special. I had ample opportunities to focus on my passions, such as soccer, and developing strong relationships with family and friends in town. Attending a close-knit, energetic high school was an incredibly rewarding experience both academically and athletically. The supportive environment made it easy to form meaningful relationships with teachers and classmates. Creating a sense of family within the school. I met my best friends from this school and have memories I will never forget."


Going back in the past, how was your senior season by the way?
"My senior soccer season was a memorable and defining chapter of my high school career. It was a bittersweet year for me. As a senior, I took on a leadership role being named captain, guiding younger teammates and ensuring our team remained focused and cohesive. That year felt special to me. More special than any of my other years. Our team never got much press, but we shocked people that year. It had its ups and downs. We lost the semifinals to make it to the district championship, and it was heartbreaking we had worked so hard to make it there but it didn’t go our way. We still advanced into states, but unfortunately our season fell short due to a tough loss in the first round. 

"Although, I was crushed the season was over it," She continued. "It highlighted our collective growth and achievements. It underscored the bonds and memories we built that will last a lifetime. Being able to wear a Northern soccer jersey was incredibly, rewarding and exhilarating. This experience not only honed my skills and understanding of the game, but also emphasized the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and representing our school with pride. This atmosphere not only helped me grow as an athlete, but also taught me the importance of teamwork, dedication, and school pride."


Let's bring it back. How was the first year experience?
"My first year of college was an exciting and transformative experience. It taught me a lot. I met the best group of girls that made my time there enjoyable so far. Moving far from home for the first time was both challenging and liberating as it pushed me to become more independent and self-reliant. Anderson is a Christian private school that offered a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. Where values and community were emphasized helping me feel at home despite the distance. Academically, the shift from high school to college was significant. Majoring in nursing, I had more rigorous coursework and higher expectations. But, the smaller class sizes and accessible professors made the transition somewhat smoother. Being down South introduced me to a different culture and pace of life. Warm weather, friendly people, and a unique regional charm that made my first year both enjoyable and enriching."


How was your freshman season?
"My freshman soccer season was a crucial period of growth and adjustment. Transitioning to the college level, I quickly had to adapt to the faster pace and higher intensity of the game, which was a significant step up from high school. Our team finished the season with an 8-7-2 record, reflecting both our strengths and areas for improvement. From a team perspective, we built strong chemistry and showed resilience in many close matches. Laying a solid foundation for future success."

"Individually, I worked hard to earn my spot and contribute to the team. Learning from experienced teammates and coaching staff. It was a lot mentally going from playing every minute of a game to none at all. I had to learn that my role looked different this year. Instead of leading my teammates on the field, I was cheering for them on the bench. I learned to be patient and work hard because my time will come. I started playing more towards the end of my fall season and into my spring season. This season taught me the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and continuous development."


Any question that deals with the word, “support” can come in very different answers. From general statements, personal thoughts or outside factors impacting a person, everybody wants to feel supported no matter what’s going on in their life. Throughout your life, you have probably seen the highs and even the lows. What does support mean to you and how’s it impacted you as you’re navigating career? 
"To me, support means having a reliable network of people who encourage, guide, and stand by you through various challenges and successes. Throughout my life, this has come from family, friends, coaches, and teammates who have provided emotional and mental assistance.  I am the youngest of five and from a large family, so I’ve always had a strong support system. This support has been crucial in helping me navigate life's ups and downs. Providing a sense of stability and assurance that I am not alone in my journey. Knowing that I have a strong support system has empowered me to take risks, strive for my goals, and become a better person."

"During my freshman year as a college athlete, I struggled with mental health a lot. Dealing with mental health struggles can be particularly challenging due to the constant pressure to perform, maintaining academic success, still having a social life, or being far from home. In these moments, the support from my network becomes even more vital. I leaned on my friends a lot this year as they helped me when I was at my lowest. There have been times when the stress and expectations felt overwhelming, leading to self-doubt, and feeling weak. However, knowing that I have people who believe in me and stand by me has empowered me to take risks, strive for my goals, and navigate life's ups and downs with confidence."


What is the outlook heading into sophomore year?
"Heading into my sophomore season, the outlook is very positive both for the team and for me individually. As a team, we’ve built strong chemistry and have a solid foundation from last year. With many returning players and some promising new additions. We’re focused on improving our tactics, maintaining our fitness, and setting our sights on a successful run in the conference. Individually, I’m more confident and experienced, having adjusted to the college game’s speed and physicality. I’m aiming to take on a more significant leadership role, continue developing my skills/fitness, and contribute to our team's success."


Thank you Lodo for taking the time to talk with me. It was better late than never, to connect. Do you have any words of encouragement or motivation for people? Any last words?
"Thank you for having me; it’s been a pleasure. I’d say always believe in yourself and stay dedicated to your goals, no matter how challenging the journey gets. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and inspire you. Remember that setbacks are just opportunities to learn and grow stronger. Don’t take your time for granted it goes by fast make the most of every moment. Keep pushing forward, and great things will come your way."


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Location: Anderson, SC, USA

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