Player Feature: Jackie Tamas

Jackie Tamas, the Women’s First Team’s stalwart right/left back, has consistently showcased her defensive style on the pitch over her past 3 years at Edgewater Castle FC. In this part of the Player Features series, Tamas delves into how she got into playing, what motivates her as a player, and how she balances her busy schedule on and off the pitch.

What’s your earliest memory of playing soccer, and when did you realize you wanted to play it in your adult life?

“My earliest memory was playing in the backyard with my dad. We would make goals and play mini games. When I was a little older, I went on to play house and travel soccer. I just fell into [playing soccer semi-professionally], but I’ve always known that I wanted to continue playing for the rest of my life.”

What was the biggest challenge you faced on your journey to becoming a semi-professional soccer player?

“Balancing time between my jobs, nursing school, and everyday life. Spending time with family and close friends has been a challenge too. Because my schedule can vary, it can be difficult to maintain the level of play that I want to achieve while still trying to balance life.”

Who has been the most influential coach or mentor in your career?

“My dad has probably been my biggest influence. I grew up watching him play, and I always wanted to be like him [as a player]. He’s still playing at 55, so I really look up to him a lot. He’s a strong person and a great player.”

Is there a moment in your career you’re most proud of?

“Me scoring the goal that would lead my [club team outside of Edgewater Castle] to go to regionals.”

What does your typical day look like during the season vs. during the offseason?

“During the season, I am still a full time student so I’m at school a decent amount of time. I pick up work when I can, and I try to go lift [weights] in the mornings two to three days a week and go to practice. But the off season looks a bit different. I’m still playing rec games, but I’m lifting a lot more and I’m more chilled out.”

How do you handle pressure or nerves before big games?

“On the way to games, I listen to music that helps me focus and create a positive vibe. On the field during warm-ups, I try to get into a good rhythm by getting in good touches.” 

If you weren’t playing soccer semi-professionally, what do you think you’d be doing instead?

“I would be baking a lot more!”

Why did you join ECFC?  

“I joined it through a friend (Flower) and I made the decision to play with ECFC because I wanted a group of both friends and teammates, and I wanted to play soccer at a competitive level again. 

What has been your favorite memory with the team?

“There are a lot of great memories. My penalty kick [against DeKalb United] was fun, and all the team bus rides. Also winning the [USASA Region 2] cup last year.”

What is your favorite pregame song?

“Temperature by Sean Paul!”

Who’s your favorite soccer player?

“[Andrea] Pirlo!”

What’s your favorite pregame meal?

“Not pregame, but one of my favorites of all time was a burger I had once at halftime!”

What advice would you give to young players who want to continue playing soccer later in life?

“I’d say play because you love to play and always remember to stay true to yourself. Everyone has their own style that works best for them and that will suit them in the long run. Keep up with your fitness and skills and look for opportunities to play. Eventually, one will find you if you keep persevering.”