Introducing Jessika Cowart
May 03, 2017 | Women's Soccer
Incoming freshman Jessika Cowart is set to join the Huskies this coming fall season from Redwood City, Calif. where she attended Woodside High School. A member of the US Women's Futsal National Team, she was awarded three stars by Top Drawer Soccer and named to the IMG Academy Top 150. Cowart has played her club soccer for both the Palo Alto Soccer Club and PSV Union FC. We caught up with Cowart this spring to ask her a few questions in order to get to know her a little better.
What drew your initial interest in the University of Washington when you began your college search?
I was looking for a college with strong academics as well as a strong soccer program. UW was always high on my wish list of potential schools since they have a strong Biology and Medicine department and a great soccer program.
What factors played the biggest role in you deciding to commit to Washington?
During my first visit to UW, I was walking around campus and I stopped it the middle of the quad to take in the beauty of it all. I instantly fell in love with the campus. Then I met Coach Lesle, Coach Amy, and the rest of the staff, and I knew I had to come here. I am so thankful for their confidence in me and to have the opportunity to contribute to the team.
Have you spent much time in Seattle before?
I had never been to Seattle before my first visit to UW, but I have been back many times since and love the area. I plan on doing a lot of sightseeing.
Other than soccer, what is your favorite sport to play?
I love playing futsal (indoor soccer) and I'm currently on the US Women's Futsal Team. We are getting ready to play in Spain for the Women's Futsal World Cup. Futsal has given me a lot of technical skills which I apply to soccer and I love the fast pace.
What athlete do you admire the most?
My idol growing up was Ronaldinho, midfielder from Brazil. I would watch his soccer moves on YouTube for hours and try to emulate him in games. He would do amazing things with the ball that no one else was doing. He was a big influence on me and how I play.
If you could have dinner with one person who would it be?
I would have dinner with Brazilian great, Pele. I would love to talk with him about how he came to be one of the best there is. He is amazing and so inspiring to many! It would be awesome to tap into his mind.
What are you most looking forward to as you begin your time here as a Husky?
I'm really looking forward to making new friends and getting involved on campus.
