In our question and answer series with St. Edward's student-athletes, Jess Davenport, an intern in the Hilltoppers Athletics Communications Office, caught up with
GEORGE MURRAY from the men's soccer team.
Q: How did you hear about St. Edward's?
A: I heard about St. Edward's as I was going through the soccer recruiting process with a company in the UK called Pass4Soccer. St. Edward's showed interest and I was in constant communication with the coaches for a while, before doing my own research about the school and the city of Austin.
Q: What convinced you that St. Edward's would be the right fit?
A: I was on a soccer tour to the US in March 2017 in North Carolina, and took a break to fly to Austin for a couple of days and meet the coaches, the team and see the campus. I knew St. Edward's was perfect for me in all aspects – the campus was stunning, the location was ideal and everyone associated with the team was really welcoming. This was particularly important for me as I knew St. Edward's had a strong history of athletics and was the ideal place for me to continue both my athletic career and my academics, at such a high-ranking liberal arts university.
Q: What has been your favorite athletics memory at SEU?
A: In terms of specific games, I would have to say the back-to-back home victories we had against West Texas A&M and Eastern New Mexico last October. I scored in both games, we had two big wins, and my parents were there! It was a really special weekend since they obviously don't get to watch me play as much any more.
Q: What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?
A: I would say being named to the All-Lone Star Conference Team last fall. I have scored more goals and improved each year since I arrived here, but I want to continue to be as influential as possible in my final season. To have another good season personally and lead the team back to the NCAA Tournament would be my biggest achievement and a great way to finish my college career.
Q: What is your major and what is your plan when you graduate?
A: I am an English literature major with a minor in journalism and digital media. Once I graduate, I hope to become a sports journalist.
Q: What interests do you have outside of soccer?
A: I enjoy going out to eat with my girlfriend and friends, particularly in Austin. I also write about and watch as much sport as possible (not just soccer) and listen to a lot of podcasts.
Q: How does living in Austin compare to England?
A: Obviously it's a lot warmer in Austin than back home! But there are also cultural differences such as the music scene in Austin and the great variety of food. Austin is also special for its combination of natural landmarks such as Zilker Park and Barton Springs as well as its urban areas, which makes it different to a lot of places in England but similar to some of the big cities, particularly London.
Q: What is the best advice that someone has given you?
A: To believe in yourself and always give everything your best.
Q: How are you dealing with the current situation of COVID-19? What does a typical day look like for you?
A: I am back home with my family and have been mainly staying at home as advised by the government. Typically, I wake up and work out either on my exercise bike or going out for a run. I then do some homework, plan and write articles for the school newspaper and for my blog. In the evenings I play games or do quizzes with my family and watch Netflix. I need to start a new series soon!
#FearTheGoat
