WASHINGTON – The Georgetown University women's soccer team has three former student-athletes and one current student-athlete competing in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia. Our current and former student-athletes were kind enough to provide some words on their upcoming experience and what it means to them.
 
Kyra Carusa, Daisy Cleverley, Maya Alcantara and Lara Larco are the four Hoyas set to compete in the games. Carusa will represent Ireland, Clevery will represent New Zealand, Alcantara will represent the Philippines and Larco will represent Haiti.
 
 
1. How excited are you for the World Cup and what does it mean to you that you get to represent your country on an international stage?
 
"Obviously, this is an extra special moment for me being able to represent my country at a World Cup all on home soil. Every time I get to put on the fern it is a huge honor, so being able to do that in front of my family and friends is incredibly special." – Daisy Cleverley
 
"It is an incredible honor to represent the Republic of Ireland in our first ever World Cup appearance. To be a part of this squad of women making history, it feels absolutely electric." – Kyra Carusa
 
"I am absolutely thrilled as we are just days away from the start of the 2023 World Cup. It's hard to put into words the sheer excitement and honor that I feel. For any footballer, this prestigious tournament is the ultimate dream, and being a part of this historic occasion is an incredible privilege. Representing the Philippines on the international stage is a responsibility that I take to heart—it means carrying the hopes and aspirations of an entire nation. I feel humbled to be playing alongside such talented and driven individuals. It's a profound opportunity to showcase the passion and dedication that flows through the hearts of every Filipino." – Maya Alcantara
 
"I am incredibly thrilled for the upcoming World Cup and the impact it holds, especially for the Haitian team. Our journey has been filled with immense challenges over the past year and a half. Despite not being able to play home games due to the country's insecurity, my deep connection to Haiti has always inspired me. Haiti was once known as a paradise before corruption took hold, and I share the dream of restoring it to its former glory. For years, I've sought ways to make a significant impact on my country, and now I'm proud to contribute through soccer. The historic achievement of qualifying for the women's World Cup has been an unbelievable experience. It holds tremendous significance for me, witnessing the Haitian Soccer Federation gain respect and offering better opportunities for future Haitian women's soccer players compared to what my teammates endured throughout their lives. It's so much more than just soccer. Haiti is my home, and bringing joy to the Haitian people through soccer amid the prevailing darkness in the country is a dream come true." – Lara Larco
 
 
 
2. What are your preparations for the World Cup?
 
"The majority of the team has been in camp for nine weeks, then we have two friendly warm-up matches before we play Norway on the 20th." – Daisy Cleverley
 
"We have been in training camp many weeks now, so the preparation cannot be understated. Everything from building up fitness, executing playing style and becoming used to playing together. We are fortunate to have had the time to grow before the tournament." – Kyra Carusa
 
"Before joining the team for our pre-tournament camp, I dedicated myself to training and attending classes in Georgetown. Even after my time with the Hoyas ended in the fall, Coach Nolan's generosity allowed me to continue training with the team. The athletics staff was exceptional in their support, providing me with extra sessions, film analysis, and ensuring that I had all the resources necessary to perform at the highest level." – Maya Alcantara
 
"We have been training since June 18th, practicing almost every day, and sometimes even twice a day. As a team that qualified through the playoffs, we understand the need to put in more effort than other countries. It hasn't been easy, but it will undoubtedly be worth it in the end!" – Lara Larco
 
3. How did your time at Georgetown help you get to where you are today on this stage?
 
"My first season at Georgetown was some of the best football I've played. I loved the way we played at Georgetown, and the successes I had with this program set me up well both at a professional level (gaining my first pro contract) and international level (being selected and playing for New Zealand)." - Daisy Cleverley
 
"The biggest influence Georgetown had on me was Coach Dave Nolan. Him being Irish, he is the coach who insisted I start the process of getting my Irish citizenship. I am incredibly thankful to him for encouraging me to do so. Not just for international football opportunities, or working abroad but to connect me to my familial heritage I've cherished my whole life." – Kyra Carusa
 
"My time at Georgetown was instrumental in shaping me both as a player and as a person. The University's nurturing environment for dreamers has played a pivotal role in my journey. I never had to choose between my athletic pursuits and my academic or professional aspirations; instead, I was encouraged to excel in all aspects of life. The unwavering support of the Georgetown community, from professors to coaches and fellow students, has been a guiding force every step of the way. Their belief in me has propelled me to this magnificent stage. With boundless gratitude and determination, I am ready to seize this moment and give my all to make my country proud at the World Cup!" – Maya Alcantara
 
"I would say my time at Georgetown has been filled with amazing moments so far, but also a ton of adversity both on and off the soccer field. I believe that this has made it much easier for me to navigate through the challenges we've faced as a national team and personally on this team. Georgetown has also played a significant role in fostering discipline in balancing academics and soccer, which has translated to the national team and has certainly earned me rewards due to my discipline." – Lara Larco