If one was in search of a dependable, level-headed, dedicated leader, Alisa Larson-Xu would make a superb choice. And though her position as a defensive midfielder may not often generate big numbers on the stat sheet, her unwavering presence has provided a valuable boost for the women’s soccer team.
Larson-Xu, who transferred from the University of California-Santa Cruz after one year, started 52 games in her three seasons of Whitman soccer. She served as a team captain this year, and in recognition of her strong defensive efforts was tabbed for the All-NWC Second Team. The midfielder tallied three assists, all of which came in Missionary wins.
Yet whether or not her contributions have shown up on paper, they certainly have in the eyes of her coach, Scott Shields.
“She’s a fantastic player,” said Shields. “She understands how to play the game on multiple levels: it didn’t matter what we wanted her to do, she would do it.”
Katie Oost and sophomore Elise Otto won the ITA Northwest Fall Championships doubles bracket.
“We would not have been as good as we were without her,” Shields said.
Larson-Xu described her own approach to the game and how it has shaped her experiences over the past several years.
“I’m the silent, lead-by-example type,” Larson-Xu said. “And I have learned how to play a leadership role.”
These tendencies to take charge without domineering have not gone unnoticed by her coach, and he has come to regard her as a steady foundation of the team.
“She’s always there, always ready to practice: so consistent,” said Shields. “Even-keeled and strong.”
After graduating, Larson-Xu will embark on Whitman’s Year in China program, then possibly apply to law school.
Reflecting on her life as a Whitman student-athlete, Larson-Xu said she found the schedule to be challenging but rewarding. She also discovered soccer was a motivating factor in devoting energy to her studies.
“It’s hard to balance everything,” Larson-Xu. “But it’s worth it.”
