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Contact: Clark Teuscher, Sports Information Director, 630-637-5302
(article posted by Jeremy Rushing, Student Sports Information Assistant)

Feb. 11, 2013 -  Whether it's a play on the court or a question on an exam, North Central College women's basketball player Sophie Newson understands how to think through things.  As a senior, Sophie has emerged as one of the main leaders on a very young team. 
               
During her first season as a Cardinal, Sophie started 21 of the 23 games in which she played.  She scored in double figures 15 times, recording a season-high 33 points and 11 rebounds against Loras College.  She finished third on the team in scoring (12.2 points per game) while also finishing second in both assists (40) and steals (38). 
               
Sophie played in 18 games during her sophomore season, starting 14 of them.  She finished in double figures eight times, including a 17 point effort against Elmhurst. As a junior, Sophie played in 23 games and started 14, scoring in double figure five times and netting 16 points on two separate occasions.  She averaged 6.9 ppg and 3.5 rpg.

This season, the psychology major has been a leader on a team embracing a new style of play, and will look to help the Cardinals secure their first berth in the College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin (CCIW) Tournament since 2009.

How did you get involved with basketball?
In fifth grade my school was just starting a girls' basketball team, so I decided why not?  After enjoying our first year we decided to start playing AAU ball during the summer.

What's your favorite thing about basketball?
I love the team aspect.  It's all about the people you meet and life experiences.  Basketball teaches you so much.

In December, the team traveled to Las Vegas for a Holiday tournament, what was that experience like?
It was amazing because we were able to connect so much as a team.  On the court, it was great because it allowed us to see different play styles and play different teams then we would normally play here.

Who is your favorite basketball player?
I'd have to say both Michael Jordan and Candace Parker.  Both of them inspired me in different ways and if it weren't for them I may not be where I am today.

As you look back over the past four years, what's one of your favorite basketball memories?
I'd have to say this season as a whole.  Being a senior, I've realized how much I've learned over the past four years from everyone around me.

What's the best part about playing for head coach Michelle Roof?
She just has a personality and human nature you can't duplicate.

What's your favorite class you have taken so far at North Central?
It's a toss-up between both Clinical Psychology and Child Psychology

Do you ever take your psychology background and use it on the court?
Sometimes I'll catch myself telling myself to stay optimistic on the court.  But other than that, not really.

What are your plans after graduation?
I plan on going to grad school for Occupational Therapy.

Who are your biggest role models?
I would definitely have to say my grandparents.  They've supported me in all aspects of life.

What's been your message to the younger players on the team this year?
The biggest thing is the effort you put in and the responsibility you have.  You have to respect everyone around you both on and off the court.