WASHINGTON– Although COVID-19 has prevented us from competing this fall, there are still plenty of former Georgetown women's soccer players playing professionally. We caught up with a few of them to see how they are handling their seasons during these uncertain times.
Earlier this week, we caught up with former Hoya Daphne Corboz (C'15). Today, we were lucky enough to chat with her younger sister and also former Hoya standout, Rachel Corboz (C'18). The younger Corboz also took her talents to play professionally in France, currently for Stade de Reims. During her time on the Hilltop, Corboz was a two-time MAC Hermann Trophy semifinalist and All-American. She was tabbed BIG EAST Midfielder of the Year twice, as well as a four-time All-BIG EAST honoree. She led GU to win the program's first back-to-back BIG EAST Championship title and the league's regular season title, all in the same season, as well as a trip to the 2016 College Cup.
Please catch us up, where are you playing these days and how did you end up there? How do you like living there?
Corboz: I am currently playing in the first division in France for a team called Stade de Reims. This will be my third year of being a professional and living in France. I spent my first year at FC Fleury 91, also in the French first division, and have now entered my second year at Stade de Reims. I have really enjoyed my time here and love being able to visit and explore different cities and countries throughout Europe.
How has it been for you so far, has it been a difficult adjustment? How would you describe the style of soccer compared to playing at Georgetown?
Corboz: When going from collegiate soccer to professional soccer, there is definitely an adjustment to be made. During my first year as a professional, I was fortunate enough to play on the same team as my older sister, which definitely made my adjustment to a new team, style of play, culture, etc. a lot easier. I have found that in the professional game the girls are all around more complete players and the game itself is much more technical and faster than the college game.
What effect has the COVID-19 pandemic had on you personally and professionally?
Corboz: Unfortunately, we were unable to finish our previous season due to COVID-19. As a result, I was able to return to the U.S. and spend a lot more time at home with my parents than I otherwise would have been able to. Since mid-July, I have been back in Reims for preseason and it has been great to be back out on the field with my teammates again.
Remind us of your favorite moment in your Georgetown playing career.
Corboz: I have so many fond memories at Georgetown that it's difficult to pick just one. Being able to play with my sister my freshman year is definitely at the top of my list, as well as making it to the College Cup in 2016, something that had never been done in program history. We had a very close-knit team that year which I think amounted to the success we had on the field.
What advice would you give somebody who wants to play professional soccer after college?
Corboz: I think if you love the game and are serious about putting in the time and the work it takes, then it can be done.