Reiser Bolsters Team in Its Rise to the Top

Having played soccer for 16 of her 18 years, the game is definitely in Sophie Reiser's blood. And in her first year at Columbia, Reiser has been a key component in the Lions' rise to the top of the Ivy League.

Her electric game has energized the offense, and is a large part of why the Lions are 5-0-1 in the Ivy League and poised to win their first league championship.

Reiser grew up playing in center midfield, although she has primarily played striker this year in Columbia's 4-3-3 offense. Her midfield background is reflected in her smooth game on the field.

"I like to make plays and be creative," Reiser said. "I'm not all about goal-scoring. No matter who's scoring goals, I just love to attack and make plays happen."

Her creative playmaking was on display earlier this season in Columbia's 3-2 win over Princeton. With a goal and two assists against the Tigers, Reiser changed the outcome of the game.

Reiser has quickly become a role player for Columbia, and is one of just a few freshman who see significant playing time.

"As a freshman all you can do is work your hardest, but I've been really fortunate to the get the opportunities I've had," Reiser said. "Our coach gives everyone the opportunity to play, and you just have to show your skills."

At this time last year, Reiser was at Nathan Hale High School in Seattle, Washington, where she scored 22 goals and had nine assists as a senior. She was named Metro League player of the year in 2005, and she led her club team to the Washington state finals in 2006.

Reiser credits her teammates with helping ease her transition from high school on the west coast to collegiate athletics in New York.

"They were all really supportive," she said. "When you first step on the field you're terrified, but the seniors really encouraged me, and I'm going to miss them next year."

With those seniors departing next season, the pressure to repeat this season's success will fall primarily on Reiser. But so far, the freshman has shown that she is more than capable of taking on a leading role.