Linfield University Athletics

FRESHMAN
Member of the Linfield women’s soccer team.
Dean’s List recipient.
 
SHORECREST HIGH SCHOOL
Two-time First Team All-WESCO.
MVP of State Semifinal game.
 
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Major is undecided.
Daughter of Alex and Cheryl Zahajko.
 
WHY LINFIELD?
I chose to attend Linfield because I felt that it was the perfect distance where it wasn't too far from home but also not too close. I also loved the idea of a small school and town.
 
WHAT DOES BEING A STUDENT-ATHLETE AT LINFIELD MEAN TO YOU?
Being a student-athlete means having to work a lot harder. You have to be able to be disciplined, but also not too hard on yourself. You need to be able to be strong not only physically, but mentally as well.
 
HOW HAS PARTICIPATING IN SPORTS MADE YOU A BETTER PERSON?
Growing up I was always a shy person, struggled making friends, and some points my mental health wasn't the best. When I step on the field, all that goes away. I've made friends from soccer that have lasted at least 10 years. I have to be a leader on the field and so I can't be shy, I have to use my voice.
 
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS?
I see myself hopefully working in a history museum and creating cool exhibits to share to the world. I've always loved going to museums, especially history ones, and being able to talk to the workers about any questions I have.
 
WHAT'S THE BEST LINFIELD CLASS YOU'VE TAKEN AND WHY?
Jams 150: Living in a Media World. The class had me look at media from a new perspective and would take on current events as well. The writing assignments were unique and put a new spin on essays, which I enjoyed.
 
WHO HAS BEEN THE GREATEST INSPIRATION IN YOUR LIFE? WHY HAS HE OR SHE BEEN SO INFLUENTIAL?
My mom has been my greatest inspiration. She is the strongest person I know. No matter what life throws at her, she always comes out the other side stronger than ever. She has always supported me in every decision I make.
 
THE GREATEST PRINCIPLE OR LESSON THAT I'VE LEARNED WHILE COMPETING IN ATHLETICS AT LINFIELD HAS BEEN...
One main principle was that a team is as strong as its weakest link. I've been on both sides of a team, whether I'm on the weaker or stronger side, and this has taught me that supporting your teammates is so important. Pushing everyone to be the best they can be is crucial to being strong together.
 
AS A LINFIELD STUDENT-ATHLETE, MY GOALS INDIVIDUALLY AND COLLECTIVELY FOR MY TEAM ARE...
Individually, my goal is to push myself, while also enjoying every moment. As for my team, I hope to grow connections and establish a relationship where we can help each other grow as players.