Ella Masar Interview

Red Stars Confidential got the privilege of being able to interview star Forward Ella Masar. Since professional soccer players get soccer questions all the time, we figured that we should have some fun with Ella.


NH:        The Red Stars have undergone a big transformation in the off-season. How do you feel coming back to what seems like a brand new team?
EM:        I am extremely excited. Anytime you have a disappointing season, as we did last year, we know changes need to be made. I have no doubt that the choices the Red Stars made in the off season will make us a better team and a top contender in the league.

NH:        What's it going to be like with Kate Markgraf back? (after missing the 2009 season due to the birth of twins)
EM:        Kate Markgraf is a name that speaks for itself. She is not only a veteran of one of the best team's in our countries history but even more an amazing person. She is someone that will bring experience, heart, and pride to the Chicago name. I am truly flabbergasted to be able to call her my teammate.

Ella Masar is the Chuck Norris of the Red Stars.

NH:        Which would you rather play for? The 2011 World Cup team or the 2012 Olympic team? (my hope is both)
EM:        haha that's like choosing between chocolate and long walks on the beach, not possible!  To be able to have your name on the back of the US jersey is a dream within itself. The hours of sacrifice, hard work, and dedication are something many people can't fathom (not even myself at times). Just to have that honor would be worth more than a Gold Medal and World Cup, those are just extra bonuses.

NH:        WPS puts a lot of effort into social networking: Facebook, Twitter, etc - do you think this helps bridge the gap between fan and athlete?
EM:        I definitely think that it helps. It's a way that the fans can interact with us and take a small step into our lives. Hopefully it can show the joy and love we have for them, as well as how much their respect and appreciation mean to us.

NH:        Who do you look up to professionally?
EM:        Lindsey Tarpley hands down. Humble and hungry is something that I strive to live by everyday and Linds is someone that upholds that to the highest regard. She is by far one of the most dedicated, humble, and hardest workers I know. She has allowed me to know and respect the journey of a national team and professional player that much more.

NH:        What's your pre-game play list on your iPod?
EM:        Hahaha, well in the past years it has been the Lil Wayne, Eminem, and any other rap music that gets my heart beating and blood a pumping. Yet this year, after taking a liking to movie soundtracks, I can't help and put on songs that are from an inspiring or dramatic scene. For instance the song "Promontory" from Last of the Mohicans or "Prime" from Transformers are two of my favs. If those don't make you feel like you can run climb the highest mountain, I'm not sure what else can :p

NH:        I looked at the Chicago Red Stars website and saw that you also do double duty as answering the phones for the Red Stars. Shouldn't Coach Hayes have you practicing instead of taking ticket orders?

EM:        lol, What can I say, being a professional comes with all sides of the spectrum. Anything that will allow me to be closer with the fans and help build our supporter base is something I can't turn down.