WBB Season Recap Q&A

WBB Season Recap Q&A with Golden Eagle Players

Q: How does being part of the first JBU women's basketball team to go undefeated in SAC Conference feel?

A: (Graci) It feels good knowing that all the work we put into practices, whether that be preseason or during the season, paid off. We never let up. We always trusted in each other and our coaches and believed we could have an undefeated record in the conference.

A: (Bella) I am extremely proud to be part of this team and all our accomplishments. Knowing that I was part of this historic season for JBU WBB has allowed me to end my basketball career on the highest of highs.

A: (Natalie) I feel so blessed to be associated with the first JBU women's team to go undefeated in SAC Conference play. Before the season, I really thought we could win the conference; I knew it would be hard but possible. But to go undefeated in such a difficult conference is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I'm so grateful I was able to be a part of it.
A: (Tarrah) It's a remarkable achievement to be part of such a historic team, and I feel blessed. The dedication, hard work and teamwork that went into achieving this season was immense. Being forever associated with that accomplishment is something I will always cherish. I think it's really a testament to the team's determination and unity and will forever be a source of pride for all of us.

Q: What was it like experiencing the 27-game winning streak?

A: (Graci) After we went undefeated in the first round of the conference, we had the confidence that we could do it again. It wasn't going to be easy, but we did it once, so why not do it again? Game after game, we just wanted to keep on winning. It honestly was more surreal for us when we lost because we had the confidence that we could play with anyone.

A: (Bella) Honestly, I never really comprehended our win streak. As a team we took it game by game. We were proud of our accomplishments but knew there was always another game to prepare for. Some of those games we were down by over 10 points at one point in the game, and we had to fight for the win. Having those experiences made the wins that much sweeter.

A: (Natalie) It was surreal, to say the least. It is difficult to put into words how incredible that experience truly was. It was a peak that we never wanted to stop; each win just fed into the next. Our joy after each team win just motivated us to keep going.
A: (Tarrah) Experiencing a 27-game win streak was incredibly exciting and a motivator to keep working hard and succeeding as a team. The further into the win streak, the more we started trusting each other as teammates and knew we had each other's back in every game or situation. We were in it together and Coach Soda just kept telling us to take it one game at a time and one win at a time, and that's what we did. We focused on whatever game was coming up and worked together to win each game.

Q: What factors contributed to the team's 27-game winning streak? As a fan, it appeared you all had good team chemistry and played to each player's strengths.

A: (Graci) Right before the game starts, the starting five always comes together in a huddle. We talk about the work we put in to get here and what needs to happen to win this game. We'll then personalize our communication like "Nat, give me six 3s tonight," or "it's our game." Then, everybody makes eye contact, and we all take a deep breath at the same time. This personalized communication is continued throughout the game and it seems to pick everybody up. Also, we really trusted Coach Soderquist and what he had to say. If we were down at halftime, some of Coach Soderquist's speeches really hyped us up. We all wanted to play for each other but also for Coach Soda. He's a good dude.

A: (Bella) I think a big part of our success was that we were all friends and wanted each other to succeed. Every game, someone new stepped up. As a team, when you can celebrate your teammates, it builds a connection that is seen on and off the court. I think this has a lot to do with the girls that Coach Soderquist has recruited. We all have unique characteristics, but we can come together to be a unified team.
A: (Natalie) There were so many contributing factors that led to the success we had on the court together. Senior leadership is one of those, having eight seniors to lead the team in both practice and games helped to set the standard for the younger members of the team. The younger members of the team contributed tremendously. They stepped up in really crucial moments during the season. Additionally, our team chemistry came naturally, which helped in a multitude of ways - one of which was allowing us to play to one another's strengths. Obviously, not everyone played every single game, but everyone gave their very best in practice, and that helped make the team better.
A: (Tarrah) So many factors played into our success this season, starting with our team chemistry. I know personally I trust each of the girls on the team and think of them more as sisters than teammates. We all loved to be around each other, and each of us was dedicated to the team's success. Of course, we also had an amazing coaching staff that encouraged, motivated and supported us throughout our journey. Having an amazing supportive community and fan base also encouraged us to keep fighting for each win because we knew we were making our school, fans and families proud.

Q: What were your thoughts when the team started 2-3? What was the team's mindset at that point?

A: (Graci) We were questioning how this season might look. However, Coach Soda kept encouraging us and fighting for our team every single day.

A: (Bella) The start of the season was very surprising. We were all confused about what was going on and were struggling to figure out our groove as a team. When we began conference play, we were nervous as a team. We had no clue how good we were. I think starting the season 2-3 allowed us to build our confidence and establish the grit to win for conference play.
A: (Natalie) When the team started 2-3, it was hard to imagine how our season would turn out. Luckily, we were 2-3 in nonconference games, and we had lost quite a few close ones, even though we weren't playing anywhere near the high expectations we had for ourselves. That gave us some confidence, knowing that if we figured ourselves out, then we could have beaten almost all the teams we had lost to. It was an issue within ourselves we needed to fix. It was not because we were outplayed or anything like that, we just needed to find our rhythm. Thankfully, we did just that.
A: (Tarrah) At the beginning of the season, I was out with an injury and we were not sure if I would get to play this year. From the bench it was clear to me we were all trying to find our roles at this point. We had some new people come in and were seeing how they would contribute and fit. Then we were trying to see who played and clicked best with each other. As a team, we were all a little disappointed in the start of the season, but it just lit a fire in us to work that much harder and find ways to succeed together.

Q: Tell me about Coach Soderquist. What has he meant to this program and you as a student-athlete at JBU?

A: (Graci) Coach Soderquist is a caring, funny and awkward guy. He always kept up with our exams and quizzes and always asked us how those went. It really surprises me how well he remembers what's going on with us off the court. He was one of the first people I texted when I found out that I passed my pharmacology exam - he sent back a gif of dogs clapping. I think Coach Soderquist will always be the face of JBU women's basketball, even after he leaves. He made a huge impact on all the girls that came through this program.

A: (Bella) Coach Soderquist is the most caring coach I have ever had. He spoke of such high character for all his past and current players. Knowing that he kept in contact with players and valued them past a basketball player speaks to his personality. He has created the JBU WBB environment and allowed it a place to prosper.
A: (Natalie) Coach Soderquist has meant so much to this program and to me personally. To the program, coach has brought athletes that find so much success both on the court and in the classroom. That is not a coincidence. Coach has a way of recruiting quality people and teammates, who are good at basketball. He looks for the character of the person first before evaluating their skills. That is why he has had so much success within the program. As far as me personally, coach and I have built a very good personal relationship over these past four years. He has helped guide me in the right direction and is willing to have the hard conversations that some people shy away from, whether that be about studies or on the court or the future. He always comes from a purposeful perspective and truly wants what's best for me and everyone he has ever coached.
A: (Tarrah) Coach Soda was the coach I had needed all my career. I have not met a coach that is as caring, supportive and knowledgeable about the game of basketball as Coach Soda. He just showed all of us he cared about us every day and not just as student-athletes but as individuals on our own journey in life and with Christ. He will forever be a role model for me and so many others when it comes to showing Christian values, leading others and loving people. Personally, he is my role model for how I want to coach someday. I've had a couple different coaches in my career, but like I said, none were like Coach Soda. He is one of a kind, and I am forever grateful and feel blessed to have gotten to be coached by him.

Q: What would you like to say to Coach Soderquist as he now embarks on the next stage of life in retirement?

A: (Graci) Don't miss us too much, and avoid situations that make the vein stick out of your forehead.

A: (Bella) I want to say thank you to Coach Soderquist. He saw potential in me in high school and continued to see that potential when I transferred from a different university. He built a personal relationship with me and helped me to fall back in love with basketball. I am so grateful for all the opportunities he gave me in the past two years to succeed in basketball, school and personally. Thank you, coach!
A: (Natalie) Good luck, and thank you for all you have done to advance the game of basketball! As one of his players who has had many conversations about coaching, I know he is going to struggle being away from the game. I'm sure he is already aware of this, but he never has to fully step away from the game that he has given so much. Whether it is watching March Madness, a former player coach or even a former player's children play, he will always be surrounded by the game that he loves.

Q: Tell me about the vibe and electricity that was present in BGA during the first and second rounds of the NAIA Women's Basketball Championships. I would have to imagine those crowds produced some of the highest energy you've ever played in front of.

A: (Graci) All the girls knew it was a packed house. However, once each one of us hits the floor, all the noise goes quiet, and it's just 5-on-5, no one else.

A: (Bella) The first round of the tournament was such a special night. The crowd and atmosphere were electric, and it felt amazing to have so many classmates, friends and family cheering us on. I can't describe how special and loved we felt as a team. Women's basketball has grown so much this past year at all levels, and it was very evident at the NAIA Women's Basketball championships. I feel so blessed to be on this team and a part of the historic run proving that women's sports do matter and deserve recognition.
A: (Natalie) Those first two rounds of the NAIA tournament were what every athlete dreams of as a little kid, everyone there cheering for your team! The atmosphere was absolutely electric. I was a bit worried with it being the first weekend of Spring Break that we might not have a good turnout, but thankfully I was mistaken. I could have never imagined seeing BGA that full, unless it was for the TP game. It was unforgettable.
A: (Tarrah) The atmosphere at BGA during the first and second rounds of the NAIA Women's Basketball Championships was absolutely electric. The excitement and anticipation were noticeable by all the fans who entered the arena to support their teams. The competition's intensity and the fans' passion created a vibrant energy that could be felt throughout the arena. As a player, competing in such a charged atmosphere was both exhilarating and motivating. The energy from the fans served as a source of inspiration, spurring us to give our all every second we were on the court.

Q: What would you like to say to the fans who supported this historical season?

A: (Graci) Thank you for believing in us and encouraging us throughout the season. It didn't go unnoticed.

A: (Bella) I want to thank all our fans. We would not have had our success without them. Their passion and love for our team allowed us to play our games with such passion. We knew that they supported us every game and pushed us to play our hardest every night. We love you!
A: (Natalie) Thank you! We truly could not have done it without your love and support! Thank you to the alumni, the families, friends and JBU students who watched any of our games. Y'all are the reason we are able to play the game we love, and we can never thank you enough!
A: (Tarrah) I know the whole team would like to thank all the fans from the bottom of our hearts! Your unwavering support, cheers and positive energy propelled us to achieve greatness on the court. You were the backbone of our team, and your passion inspired us every single game. We are incredibly grateful for your support and cannot thank you all enough for being there every step of the way.

Q: How have JBU and Coach Soderquist prepared you for life after college?

A: (Graci) Coach Soda was hard on us at times because he expected a lot from us. He knew that we were capable; we just had to believe it ourselves. Going to practices or games, so tired or stressed out for exams, has made us all more than ready to go out and experience life after college.

A: (Bella) Coach Soderquist has helped me live my dream by having the opportunity to be a college athlete and also earning my degree. He has pushed me to be the best version of myself.
A: (Natalie) JBU and Coach Soderquist have the honor and the pressure of preparing us for life after college, which is a big role, especially since we are at an age where we are most influenced. JBU has prepared me for an independent life, where I can learn and grow with those I surround myself with. Coach Soderquist has prepared me for a life in coaching, he answered every question that I brought to his attention (and trust me there were plenty) and will continue to be just a phone call away whenever I need any advice or inevitably have more questions.
A: (Tarrah) JBU and Coach Soderquist have thoroughly prepared me for post-college life. JBU offered a comprehensive education focused on critical thinking and communication skills applicable in any career. The university's values, such as integrity and servant leadership, have shaped my character. Coach Soderquist's mentorship taught me essential life lessons - emphasizing teamwork, perseverance and Christian values. His guidance for facing challenges and striving for improvement will be valuable for success in all aspects of life.

Q: What was your reaction to being named SAC Player of the Year as well as being selected to the NAIA All-America Second Team?

A: (Tarrah) Being named SAC Player of the Year and selected to the NAIA All-America Second Team was an incredibly gratifying and humbling experience for me. Receiving those honors was a personal achievement and a reflection of the support and encouragement from my teammates, coaches and supporters. I know that I could not have accomplished anything without the help of my teammates, coaches, athletic trainers, family and most importantly, God.

Season Recap Q&A with Head Coach Jeff Soderquist

Q: How does it feel to be forever associated with the first JBU women's basketball team to go undefeated in SAC Conference play?

A: Going undefeated in conference play is a very rare feat. To do the journey with this very special group of young ladies I had was so very sweet. I'm very proud of them.

Q: What was your reaction to Tarrah being named SAC Player of the Year as well as being selected to the NAIA All-America Second Team?

A: What amazing accomplishments those are. Well deserved. She has meant so much to this program over her career. I have coached a number of great players but to have her be named SAC Player of the Year was very special. She was our rock all season.

Q: What was it like experiencing the 27-game winning streak? I would imagine it had to be a little surreal at times.

A: It was hard to believe that we had won that many, but I kept trying to keep the ladies focused on one game at a time, so I had to stay focused on that, too. But as we got up into the 20s it was hard not to think about it at times.

Q: What were some factors that contributed to the team's 27-game winning streak? As a fan, it appeared you all had good team chemistry and played to each player's strengths really well.

A: There were a number of things that contributed to the streak. First, it was our defense; when sometimes our offense was up and down, our defense stayed the same. Statistically, we were one of the top defenses in the nation. Second, we had different players step up at key times. I could run through several key games and name all the players that were the key to help us pull the game out. Third, with this older group that had all played for me and together for so long, they just knew how to win.

Q: What were your thoughts when the team started 2-3? What was the team's mindset at that point?

A: I was concerned, but I knew we had a talented group. We started the season with some key injuries, and I just kept coaching them and looking at it one game at a time. It was the second half of our game in Florida against Southeastern that we really looked, both offensively and defensively, the way I thought this team would look. That game started our 27-game win streak.

Q: Tell me about the vibe and electricity that was present in BGA during the first and second rounds of the NAIA Women's Basketball Championships. I would have to imagine those crowds produced some of the highest energy you've ever coached in front of.

A: The crowds were great and what a fun atmosphere to play in. It was such an awesome experience for the team.

Q: What would you like to say to the fans who supported this historical season?

A: Thank you for all the support this season and for my long career here. It means so much to the players and coaches to have that support.

Q: Do you have any final thoughts about your 36 years at JBU?

A: I spent five years as a student, four years as the men's head tennis coach, assistant men's basketball coach, sports information director, and the last 27 years as the head women's basketball coach - the last 19 of those as assistant AD. JBU is a very special place. I had the chance to go other places, but I really thought this was home. I bleed gold and blue, and I always will. I wouldn't have changed anything about my time here.

Q: What does this next step of life in retirement have in store for you?

A: I have some things planned and some things I will wait to see what God has in store for me. I will do some consulting with other coaches and programs for a little while. My wife and I have a foundation that we would like to do more with. We will probably be on some nonprofit boards. Then, we will just see what God has in store.

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