After each home game shutout, the Clemson women’s soccer team will throw up “donut” signs to celebrate another victory. But another post-game trend seen is the long line of children waiting patiently for one of their idols— senior defender Makenna Morris.
The Germantown, Maryland, native is typically one of the last players to walk back into the locker room to celebrate after a win at Historic Riggs Field. Despite being exhausted after making plays across the field over the course of 90 minutes, she always likes to make time for the kids waiting for her after the games.
“I hope that we are all inspirations to them and that they aspire to be here one day. It’s always great to put on a show for them,” she said.
Morris provides a tremendous amount of experience for a Clemson team that has newfound success this season, as she earned her 72nd career start on Sunday. She also brings a lot of versatility to the table, leading the Tigers in points (22) despite being listed as a defender on the roster. Every time Morris steps onto the pitch, she completes the task at hand, whether it be dribbling past an array of defenders, or making a crucial tackle at the back line.
“Whether it’s assists, goals, or just being a playmaker out there – anything I can do to help the team the most I can is my goal.”
Head coach Eddie Radwanksi echoed this sentiment.
“It doesn’t really matter where you play Makenna,” Radwanski said. “She’s that smart and that gifted of a soccer player where if you put her in a spot, she can cause a problem.”
Whether it be as an outside back, a number “eight” role (box-to-box midfielder), or making a move all the way into the opposition’s box, Morris is always there to take on a challenge and step up for the Tigers when needed.
“In tight games, you need somebody to step up and rise in the moment, and Makenna is the person to do it for us,” Radwanksi added.
Morris comes into every game with no fear, thanks to her teammates.
“I’m very confident in our team,” she said. “The teams are all good, but we are good too. I have so much faith and belief in each and every person on this team.”
Morris and the Tigers look to keep defying limits as they host Radford at Historic Riggs Field in the first round of the NCAA tournament on Friday night.
