A new crop of Tigers is on The Plains and ready to get to work. Follow along over the next few weeks as we re-introduce our 2020 class through a question and answer segment with each player.
We continue into our fourth week with three more newcomers, starting with freshman forward Olivia Candelino. Candelino joins the Auburn program from Jacksonville, Florida, and is a product of The Bolles School and Armada FC.
Q: Who or what inspired you to play soccer?
A: I played many sports growing up, but soccer was always my favorite. My family inspired me to love not just soccer, but all sports. My dad was an all-star athlete – played pro baseball and played basketball at Marquette – so his success influenced my goals for soccer. The passion for sports my family shares is exhibited through naming our dog Yankee after the New York Yankees and vacationing over spring break at the March Madness Final Four, just to point out a couple instances.
Q: What is your favorite soccer memory growing up?
A: My favorite soccer memory growing up was playing school soccer. Being able to wear your school's name on your shirt while succeeding is a gift that I am lucky enough to continue to do at Auburn. The crowd full of familiar faces cheering you on is very motivating. Also, I was lucky enough to win three state titles with my high school team, and it was something I will cherish forever.
Q: What is your biggest accomplishment on or off the field?
A: My biggest accomplishment on or off the field is committing to play at Auburn. The school's academics, sports teams and people are top tier, and it is what I am most proud of.
Q: Do you have any pre-match superstitions?
A: I don't have any pre-match superstitions because I feel like leading up to every match day is different. I try to go with the flow in the hours leading up to the game while trying not to put too much in my head in order to focus. But, I do always wear the same scrunchie when playing.
Q: What made you choose Auburn?
A: I chose Auburn because it is a family. The coaches are amazing along with the girls they recruited. The facilities both academically and athletically are beautiful. I cannot imagine going to any other school!
Q: What is your favorite Auburn tradition?
A: My favorite Auburn tradition is rolling Toomer's Corner. I have heard so many stories about it, but you don't understand the hype until you've witnessed it. While on my official visit, I was a part of rolling Toomer's Corner and it was so fascinating. I loved every moment!
Q: What are you most excited about for the upcoming season?
A: What I am most excited for in this upcoming season is to finally play in a soccer game. I haven't played in a game since early spring because of the pandemic, and I cannot wait to be back on the pitch in a team environment, especially in the SEC.
Q: If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?
A: One meal I would have the rest of my life is pasta. It is such a versatile meal that you could have with many sauces and combination of toppings.
Q: If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?
A: The one superpower I would have would be teleportation. If I ever was running late, forgot something, or was stuck in traffic I could just teleport out of that situation. Also, teleporting to visit my family when I miss them doesn't sound too bad either.
Q: What is your favorite movie or TV show?
A: My favorite TV show is Stranger Things. I binged all three seasons when I got my wisdom teeth out and I cannot wait for the fourth season!
Q: What major do you plan to pursue and what do you want to do with it?
A: I plan to major in public relations and hope to be a part of a professional sports organization with my education from Auburn. I feel my communication and organization are two vital assets that helped me choose this profession.
Q: What are your goals during your time at Auburn?
A: My goals at Auburn are to make an impact on the program and help in any way I can. I hope for a successful career and experience while playing under Coach Hoppa.
Q: What do you hope to do when your playing days are over?
A: I hope to play soccer as long as I can, but when my days are over I want to continue in the sports world. I would love to use my degree to be a part of a professional sports organization and continue my connection with sports elsewhere.