NAOTB: Allison Lowrey

Each week, Easton Barnes of 12thMan.com checks in with a newcomer on the Texas A&M soccer team.

This week, he chatted with Allison Lowrey who arrived in Aggieland from the Garden State.

What did you know about Texas A&M before deciding to come here? Had you ever been to Texas before coming for a visit?

Honestly, not much—just that it was in Texas and part of the SEC. That was about it.  I had been to San Antonio once, during a layover after a tournament. We visited the Alamo, but I was only there for a couple of days.

What were your first impressions when you arrived in Texas?

It was pretty much what I expected—very stereotypical in a lot of ways. Although, I thought there would be more cacti, but I hear those are mostly in West Texas. The people here are very nice, and the area feels really safe, which is great.

What has been the biggest difference between your previous school and A&M?

There are so many differences that it's hard to compare. The way of life is very different. For example, here, I ride my scooter to practice and around campus. At Rutgers, I was driving everywhere, usually on highways. It’s just a completely different lifestyle. Rutgers had around 60,000 students. The campus was very spread out with four or five different sections, which made it tough to navigate at times.

What’s it like playing in front of the 12th Man here at A&M?

It’s amazing. I’ve played in front of large crowds before, especially when my team made it to the Final Four, but experiencing that kind of support during regular season games is incredible. The energy from the crowd is always so positive and encouraging. 

What do you feel you bring to the team, given your extensive college soccer experience?

Having played a lot of college games, I’ve seen soccer from various perspectives. I’ve come off the bench, I’ve been a starter, I’ve played in the Final Four, won the Big Ten, and reached the Big Ten Final. So, I feel like I can guide my teammates through different situations based on those experiences.

How would you describe yourself as a player?

I’d say I’m very gritty. I may not be the most technically skilled player, but I’ll always work hard to get the job done.

You mentioned your Final Four experience earlier, how has that influenced your time here and your approach to playing?

It’s been valuable because I know what it takes to reach that level. I try to share that with my teammates, helping them understand what needs to be done to build a winning team. We have a lot of talented players, so it’s just a matter of getting everyone on the same page.

Since you're from New Jersey, how did you learn to pump your own gas?

I didn’t pump my own gas until I was 21! I was driving back from a visit to Maryland and was in Delaware when my fuel light came on. I had to figure it out, so I called a friend who goes to school in Pennsylvania and asked for help. I was so confused—didn’t even know where to put the card in or that I had to hold the pump the whole time. I didn’t even know if I had to go inside if I wanted to use cash. I’m sure they knew I was clueless! And I’d always forget to close my gas cap before driving off. But I’ve mostly figured it out now.

What are your plans after this season ends and graduation?

I’d love to play professional soccer. That’s definitely my goal.

Outside of soccer, what are some of your hobbies or interests?

Honestly, I always struggle with that question! I have a dog, but he’s back home right now. When I’m not on the field, I usually just hang out with my friends, on FaceTime or spend time with teammates at the dining hall. Nothing too exciting.