July 19, 2017
With the 2017 women's soccer season slowly approaching, GoPSUsports.com is asking each member of the 2017 signing class a few questions in order to get to know them better. We are continuing the series this week with forward/midfielder Casey Ballow.
A native of Ijamsville, Md., Ballow attended Urbana High School and played club soccer for Bethesda SC. While at Penn State, Ballow plans to major in business management.
GoPSU: You were named to the 2016 TeamSnap High School Soccer All-America game, what did that honor me to you?
CB: It was a privilege to be able to play with America's top high school players. I had the opportunity to compete with girls all around the US in a highly competitive game and be coached by highly qualified coaches. It was an honor to be able to represent my hometown and my high school. I have so much support from my friends and family, this was just another chance for me to make them proud.
GoPSU: Why did you decide to major in business management?
CB: I believe that going into the business side of things will give me multiple opportunities to strive forward into my future. My older sister is a part of the business program at Penn State and she only has positives things to say about it. I am looking forward to learning more material in this field and hope that the knowledge that I have gained will benefit me and my future career.
GoPSU: You mentioned that your sister attends Penn State, how did that aspect play a role in you wanting to be a Nittany Lion?
CB: My older sister, Drew, is probably one of Penn State's biggest advocates. She played a huge role in me attending Penn State. She is the very reason why I fell in love with this school in the first place. The thought of her and I being at the same school again puts a huge smile on my face. I am looking forward to spending time with her and going to her for help. Being the homebody like myself it will be nice to have her around. She is my biggest fan and I cannot wait to go to school together again.
GoPSU: What are your expectations coming into the program as a freshman? How has the transition with summer session helped?
CB: I am hoping to become a member of this amazing family. I cannot wait to bond with my new teammates and see what has in store for us in this upcoming season. My decision to come up to school for summer session was one of the best things I could have done. At first, it was a real eye opener to see the intensity of the workouts and the demands a college class required. Now because of summer session I feel completely prepared for pre-season and my fall classes.
GoPSU: What is one thing the fans should know about Casey Ballow?
CB: One thing the fans should know about me is that I am extremely grateful to be a part of this program and to be playing with these incredibly talented players and being coached by a group of amazing coaches. I am overly proud to be a Nittany Lion and cannot wait to be a part of this family.