SOCCER AMERICA INTERVIEW: Quincy Amarikwa

• by Bryan Alvarez  @somuser, Nov 20, 2008

SOCCER AMERICA interviews UC Davis forward Quincy Amarikwa, one of this year's top seniors. He earned Big West Offensive Player of the Year honors. The Aggies begin play in the NCAA Division I Men's Tournament Saturday at home against MPSF champion Denver.

Quincy Amarikwa
College: UC Davis
Class: Senior
Position: Forward
Hometown: Bakersfield, Calif.
High School: Liberty High School
Youth Club: Bakersfield Alliance
Major: Biological Sciences

Why your team will win the College Cup?
We have a good chance at winning. We have athleticism at every position that is not matched by other teams. We have overall strength and speed.

Biggest area of improvement needed to win College Cup?
We need to start fast in games. We came out in the beginning of the season with more fire at kickoff. We need to do that like at the start of the season.

Greatest asset as a player?
My competitive spirit. I'm one of the most competitive people ever! I don't like to lose ever.

Biggest weakness as a player?
Finishing.

Best advice you received when you entered college?
Have fun with your soccer. Your best soccer is played when you're happy.

Advice you gave your freshmen about Coach Shaffer?
One thing I told them was "learn to win". In college soccer, that's a big thing. Momentum can change at any time. If you have a 1-0 lead, you have to finish it off. If you are down 2-0, you have to come back. Dwayne will put you in situations to win. The rest is up to you to perform.

Favorite hangout when you're back home?
Hanging out at a friend's house. There are not too many places to go in Bakersfield.

Favorite hangout on campus or in town?
The soccer field.

Fondest memories-playing high school or youth soccer?
Just being on my team, in general. I've played with Bakersfield Alliance since I was nine years old. Everybody knows each other.

How do you like your soccer-watching on TV or playing video games?
Both. But, I like playing it on video games because I like to participate. I'd much rather play than watch.

MLS or abroad-where do you want to play?
It all comes down to the opportunities presented to me after UC Davis. I'd love to play for both. Whoever will take me.

18 or 21-what should the drinking age be?
For me, it doesn't matter. I've never had a drink in my life.