GETTING TO KNOW: SENIOR MIDFIELDER LUCAS PAULINI

RICHMOND, Va. - The VCU men's soccer team has seen a resurgence to the top of the CAA and a large part that has to do with numerous new players that are donning hte Black & Gold this season. 

Senior midfielder Lucas Paulini is one of those players and he has been outstanding for the Rams. Prior to his senior night game against UNC, he sat down with VCU Athletic Communications Student Assistant Scott Wyant to give us the scoop on himself.

SW: How difficult was the transition from Argentina to the U.S.?
LP: It wasn't as difficult as I thought it could have been. My English was terrible my freshmen year, so that was probably the most challenging part, and being away from family and friends of course.

SW: Do you have any hidden talents?
LP: Hmm I can play a little bit of Tennis and Ping-Pong but thats about it.

SW: What is your opinion on fellow countrymen Diego Maradona?
LP: As a player he was and will be the best of all time. Off the field I don't think he is the right person to admire or be influenced by. And as a coach I am sure he will be successful in the future. I expected more from him and Argentina in the past world cup.

SW: Who has had the biggest influence on your soccer career?
LP: My parents no doubt. My mom used to drive me anywhere to support me although she doesn't understand much about soccer; and my dad would kick around with me hours long trying to help me to get better.

SW: What is your greatest accomplishment on the pitch?
LP: I don't really have great accomplishments but I would say make it to the elite 8 with Tusculum College in 2008.

SW: What is the funniest thing Coach Giffard says?
LP: After every practice: "Let's suck it up and get out of dodge"

SW: What do you do to relax on an off day?
LP: Movies, hang out with friends and Cary Street Gym.

SW: Is there anyone you model your game after?
LP: I try to imitate players that play in the same position as me: Xabi, Iniesta, Gerrard, Banega. But I also like to watch Messi and Drogba.

SW: Are vuvuzelas good for the sport?
LP: Although it makes it harder to communicate with each other on the field, I think it creates a more exciting environment.

QUICK HITS

Favorite soccer player: Messi
Team: Boca Juniors from Argentina
Home cooked meal: Eggs and rice, I am not a good cook
Dream job: Pro Soccer player
When did you score your first goal? I can't remember but probably when I was about 6 years old
What is the most played song on your iPod right now? Anything from Lil Wayne and Drake
Favorite quote: Take care of the little things and the big things will take care of themselves