Although they are separated by a year of eligibility, two Ohio women’s soccer defenders have bonded on the back line this year.
The freshman Grace Campbell and sophomore Gabby Hausfeld share the same strengths on the field, which include competitive drive, good communication and aggressive tendencies on defense. Those traits have helped the pair in developing good chemistry on the field.
Both Campbell and Hausfeld have started and played significant minutes in every game this season and consequently have played an integral part in why the Bobcats have allowed one goal in their last five games.
After eight games, Hausfeld has already eclipsed the previous season’s mark with 663 minutes this year. Hausfeld said having the opportunity to play last year has helped her transition onto the field this season.
“It was definitely a boost for my confidence having gone through preseason, knowing what it was going to be like, what kind of shape I had to be in, what to do to play on the field — it’s definitely an advantage,” Hausfeld said.
Campbell has started every game as a true freshman, racking up 715 minutes this season. She said she has learned much from Hausfeld’s leadership and about what it is like to be a freshman on the team.
“I think she’s definitely one of my mentors. If I ever need anything, I can go to her, and she’ll tell me honestly what’s going on,” Campbell said. “I’m able to trust her. She gives me a lot of feedback which is nice, so she’s always my role model I look up to if I have questions.”
Ohio coach Stacy Strauss said both players are similar in speed and stature, qualities that have allowed them to be connected during the game. Strauss did not think the two would gel that quickly but was not surprised because of the leadership Hausfeld brings and Campbell’s confidence and willingness to learn.
Along with the players’ intangibles of speed and aggressiveness, Strauss said their communication has been key for them this season.
“They talk very well, and I think the biggest part of that is that they listen very well to each other,” Strauss said. “That helps them stay organized.”
Ohio senior defender Paige Howard said she has been impressed by the duo’s play this year early in the season.
“I definitely think that they were very open to learning. They were coachable, they just work real hard, and they want to do a good job — they want that starting spot,” Howard said. “But, I think since they had a lot of open spots from the graduating seniors that everyone was real excited. And their work ethic and rate was tremendous, and I think its starting to show now that we’ve got some shutouts.”
mk277809@ohiou.edu
