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.
This week, we were able to chat with former Hoya Daphne Corboz (C'15), who has been playing at the international level in France for the past few years. While at Georgetown, Corboz was a two-time All-American and still leads the program in several different categories in the record book. She was the first player in the BIG EAST to be named both the Midfielder and Offensive Players of the Year in the same season and was part of the 2012 team that won the program's first ever regular season conference title.
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 French first division for Paris FC. I moved to France almost three years ago, initially signing a six-month loan deal with FC Fleury 91 in the suburbs of Paris from Sky Blue FC, before joining them permanently for two seasons. I was recruited to Paris FC after the past two seasons, and I finally decided to sign this year and have been loving it so far. I love Paris and have really enjoyed being able to take advantage of all the city has to offer, which probably played a part in my decision to remain in the Parisian region.
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: I believe that no one should underestimate the adjustments needed to adapt to a new team, country/league and life. Throughout my career, though, I have been fortunate to not have to endure any insurmountable adaptations. When I signed my first professional contract with Manchester City FC after graduating from Georgetown, I was very excited by my new life and welcomed so well by my new teammates that my happiness overshadowed all the adjustments needed to the culture and football. The professional game compared to the college game is much quicker with a lot less space and time to make decisions. You are obviously surrounded and opposed by better players, technically and athletically, which offers you the opportunity to progress. That being said, Coach Dave's training sessions at Georgetown are very complete and prepare you in the best way possible to make the next step.
What effect has the COVID-19 pandemic had on you personally and professionally?
Corboz: The COVID-19 pandemic ended my league abruptly and prematurely last season, which was really sad. I subsequently changed clubs, so not being able to say goodbye to my teammates and to the fans that I had become close to was difficult. It has also had the unfortunate consequence of not allowing me to travel freely to see my family or return to the United States.
Remind us of your favorite moment in your Georgetown playing career.
Corboz: My favorite part of my Georgetown career is being able to live, study and play with people that I really feel a sense of belonging to. Specific moments that stand out are our 2012 BIG EAST Regular Season Champions title and our penalty shootout victory at West Virginia (No. 3 seed) in the first round of the NCAA Tournament my senior year when I was playing with my sister, Rachel.
What advice would you give somebody who wants to play professional soccer after college?
Corboz: Work hard and have fun!