By Charlotte Tannenbaum, Duke Athletic Communications Student Assistant
DURHAM – Any Duke women’s soccer fan could tell you that junior defender Katie Groff plays an essential role on Blue Devil squad. Currently in her third season at Duke,, it is hard to imagine the defensive line without her. As soon as she stepped on campus freshman year, Groff knew that she needed to put the work in to grow into the effective collegiate athlete she is today.
“It was an adjustment at first, but all my teammates and coaches believed in my transition and that I would be able to adapt,” said Groff.
And they were right. Groff has become an indispensable member of the team and an important leader on the defensive end. Though she was able to keep up with the high level of collegiate soccer from the start, Groff still had to fight for her playing time.
“As far as minutes in games, my time freshman year was limited as a center back because there were two seniors in my position,” said Groff.
But Groff wasn’t discouraged. Instead, the young player focused on the positives.
“I never wanted to show up and just be handed a spot,” said Groff. “It was nice to have competitors – and good ones! They were great leaders to learn from and helped me with my development.”
Upperclassmen like Caitlin Cosme helped Groff on and off the field, and played a big part in getting her to the level that she plays at today .
“As a freshman, Caitlin would come to me at halftime and ask me what I saw happening on the field,” said Groff. “It helped me really look closely at the game and she made sure that I was learning even when I wasn’t playing.”
Cosme, now graduated and playing for the Orlando Pride after being drafted 10th overall, was equally grateful for Groff.
“I am incredibly honored that she views me as someone who has inspired her but the truth is, she inspired me,” said Cosme. “Working side-by-side with someone like Katie everyday made me want to be a better leader and player for her and the rest of the team. I think we worked well together because even though I was older, she was never afraid to give me feedback and hold me accountable, which is so important to me.”
Groff’s older teammates immediately recognized her huge potential. They made sure to keep the player engaged and always ready.
“I had upperclassmen coming up to me, giving me…
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