Shan Malik is a Junior on the Penn Boys Varsity soccer team this season, playing Centerback
What do you think Penn’s biggest advantage is over other teams this year?: I think that the team’s bond plays the biggest role in our success this year. It really makes you want to give it your all for your teammates and has made a big impact.
How has this big start to the season motivated you guys for the rest of the year?: It really just shows us that we have the talent and the ability to beat any team and sets the standard for how we play for the rest of the season.
Describe your relationship with your teammates: My relationship with the team is really positive. I get along with all my teammates, they are all always motivating me and pushing me to play my best at all times.
How do you spend your time when you’re not playing or practicing?: When I have time outside of soccer I most of the time read or do school work.
What do you do to stay academically motivated during the school year?: I set reminders and make sure to get work done the soonest I can once it is assigned.
How do you balance academics and athletics?: I balance academics and athletics by taking advantage of every second of the day. When I don’t have practice or games I make sure to get my work done, so then when it is time to play I don’t have to worry about any assignments or tests I can just focus on playing.
If you didn’t play soccer, what would you play and why?: If I didn’t play soccer I would play golf, I really enjoy golf but don’t have the time to pursue it.
What is your favorite pre-game music and why?: My favorite pregame music is Brazilian Phonk
Who is your favorite soccer teammate and why?: I enjoy all my teammates’ company evenly, I have a good connection with every single one.
What is your goal for the rest of the season?: Push myself and the team to play as hard as we can.
