Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

WOMEN’S SOCCER | Hardworking Corboz Gains More Options

Courtesy Georgetown Sports Information
Courtesy Georgetown Sports Information

From home to the Hilltop, it’s always been all about soccer for Daphne Corboz.

The sophomore midfielder’s father played professionally in France for Football Club de Grenoble — now known as Grenoble Foot 38 — and Corboz and her two siblings have been watching soccer since shortly after birth.

“Soccer in France and Europe [in general] is just the big sport, so my dad is [still] very into soccer,” she said. “My brother and my sister both play soccer, and the culture in the house is [such that] there’s always games on and we’re always watching.”

In part because of all that viewing, Georgetown Head Coach Dave Nolan said, “[Daphne’s] got what I would consider an
international soccer brain. She just has a wonderful sense
of the game.”

But it’s not all genetics, intuition and film that have helped the New Jersey native become a rising star in the conference. Her intense work ethic has also played a major role in her development, Nolan said, noting that he often has to “kick her off the field because she’s out there so much.”

Corboz’s impact was quickly felt when she arrrived at Georgetown. Playing out of position on the left flank last fall, Corboz still managed to shine and did so despite talent around her, even though it would have left many freshman in the shadows.
While seniors like All-American Ingrid Wells may have led the way, Corboz quickly adjusted to her new role, racking up 10 goals and an assist, good enough for third overall in points for the Blue and Gray.

She was recognized accordingly by league officials after the season, as she was named to the Big East all-rookie team in addition to earning third team all-Big East honors.

With regards to what he’s done to help Corboz build on her stellar freshman season, Nolan laughed, “I just got out of her way.”

Now having moved into her more natural position on the pitch as an attacking center midfielder, this season looks to be an even bigger one for Corboz.

With the team shifting to a 4-3-3 formation, she’ll be sure to have a number of passing options to spring toward the goal at all times. Big East defenses had better watch out.

“I get to touch the ball more and attack more [playing centrally], so I definitely like my position this year better,” Corboz said. “But as long as I keep contributing to the team, that’s all that matters.”

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