Men's Soccer Spotlight On ... Jon Blackwell & Derek Hobson

We caught up for a little Q&A wtih Penn men's soccer rookies Jon Blackwell and Derek Hobson.

Do you have any superstitions or pre-game rituals?

DH: I like to play Fifa soccer on PlayStation 2 and visualize the attack.

JB: I have a ring on my right hand that I kiss four times and then brush across my chest before I play.

What is the most important thing you can do for the team this season?

DH: The most important thing I feel that I could do for my team this year would be to give everything that I can on the field and push other players to do the same.

JB: The most important thing I can do for the team is to fulfill my role as best as possible. Playing to my strengths and hard work will be my biggest contributions.

What’s the biggest difference between high school and college soccer?

DH: The biggest change from high school to college would the time management that goes into the entire day.

JB: The biggest difference is the speed of play. Everything and everyone in college is quicker and sharper on the ball.

What is your favorite moment on the field?

JB: My favorite moment was against Columbia when I received a through ball and was able to put it into the back of the net for my first goal.

What’s your motto?

DH: “Go Big or Go Home.”

How would you describe yourself in one word?

JB: Bazilly. It's not a real word, but if it was, it would describe me perfectly.

If you didn’t play soccer what would you do?

DH: If I didn’t play soccer, I would pursue a leadership position, whether it be through a fraternity or the undergraduate assembly.

What’s song(s) get you ready for a game?

JB: “Losing a Whole Year” or “Motorcycle Drive By” by Third Eye Blind or any song by Tim McGraw.