Isabel Navas Rodriguez was named a Hampton Inn Scholar-Athlete for August. The sophomore from Madrid, Spain, is a regular starter for the women’s soccer program and has made 35 saves through her first five appearances this season.
What’s the best part about playing for Western Illinois?
“The ambient. My team is now my second family. We support each other and make the college experience easier and more exciting.”
If you could give one piece of advice to someone hoping to play collegiately, what would you tell them?
“I would say to be organized. Being a student-athlete takes a lot of time with practices and classes, so find a routine that works for you, and pay attention in class because if you understand the topics there you don't have to spend time trying to understand it at home.”
What’s your favorite non sports-related hobby?
“When I am not doing homework or practicing, I like to write poetry; it is another way to express my feelings.”
If you could have dinner with three guests of your choosing, who would it be and why?
“I'd invite Madame Curie, because she is a reference as a biochemistry student, my grandpa, because I never got to meet him so I could tell him about my life, and Andrés Iniesta because he is one of the best Spanish soccer players of all times and I always admired him when I was young.”
Do you have any hidden talents?
“I have a good photographic memory, so I can look at a page of a book or a room and remember where everything is located.”
How would your friends and family describe you as a person?
“They would say I am a loyal person, caring, smart, mature and a perfectionist.”
Why did you choose your current major?
“I was always attracted to science but when I first had a chemistry class, I fell in love with it. I find really interesting all the reactions that occur in our body, especially the nervous system, so that's why I am a biochemistry major.”
Dogs or cats?
“Sorry for all the dog lovers but I have to go with cats.”
If Rocky (the school mascot) could talk, what do you think he would say?
"GO LEATHERNECKS!! I believe in all of you."
