Tougher competition brought Carrizales north

Wonder why you’re so grouchy when it starts to get cold?

Marco Carrizales thinks it’s… Wonder why you’re so grouchy when it starts to get cold?

Marco Carrizales thinks it’s because of the weather in Pittsburgh during the winter.

Carrizales, a junior midfielder on the men’s soccer team, came to Pittsburgh from Missouri City, Texas, because he wanted to compete in the Big East, which is among the top conferences for soccer.

Last year, Carrizales led Pitt in goals (eight), points (16), shots (40) and game-winning goals (three). So far this year, Carrizales leads the Panthers in shots with 16.

The Pitt News: Why did you want to start playing soccer?

Marco Carrizales: I started just because it was something that I was exposed to ever since I was a little kid. It was something I loved doing.

TPN: Did you play any other sports?

MC: I played basketball and football around the house with my friends, but never anything organized.

TPN: What made you want to play soccer at Pitt?

MC: I came here because the team is in the Big East Conference and that is where the toughest soccer competition is. I also wanted to come to the East Coast. I came here all the way from Texas, so it’s a real change in cultures. I liked that it’s like a city inside a school, rather than being out in the middle of nowhere.

TPN: What’s the biggest difference between Texas and Pittsburgh?

MC: Definitely the temperature. There really isn’t a change in seasons in Texas. It’s hot and hotter. [laughs] On the East Coast, there’s a difference in the way people act. They’re friendlier in the South. I think it’s because of the cold weather.

TPN: What’s your favorite sport other than soccer?

MC: I enjoy watching basketball and football. Actually, I pretty much like watching any sport.

TPN: What goes through your mind every time you get the ball?

MC: Don’t lose it. I try to play to have fun, so I’m having fun and relaxing. I try expressing myself on the field. It’s a way to be creative and do whatever I can with the ball. Oh, and don’t get yelled at by coach. [laughs]

TPN: What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you while on the field?

MC: Well, it was before we started playing, I had to warm up. I was younger, and this was in a summer league. As we were coming onto the field, I tripped on the walk out. I tried to just tuck and roll and kept on going.

TPN: If we were to take a look into your refrigerator, what would we find?

MC: Some hot dogs and yogurt. I’ve got a lot of chicken because I eat it a lot. Some fruits and other nutritious stuff. Nothing too crazy.

TPN: Nutritious stuff? Sounds crazy to me.