Age: 23
Occupation: Professional Soccer Player
Location: Chicago, IL
Hometown: Urbana, IL
College & Degree: University of Illinois - Health Administration

Brian Dryfhout: What did it feel like to be drafted by your homestate with the ninth overall by the Chicago Red Stars?

Ella Masar: Words can not describe the feeling of being drafted. I was actually in Norway at the time and was lucky enough to have two of my best friends, as well as my mother there with me. I had no idea where or when I was going to go in the draft and to hear my name 9th with Chicago brought the tears in a down pour. I was not only going to be a professional athlete in the state I loved the most but also doing it close to home. I still can not believe how blessed I have been with it all.

BD: What has been your biggest accomplishment so far in your soccer career?

EM: I would have to say finishing my two years of college on a full-scholarship. I came in on a 10% ride and to be able to say I was not only an All-American by the time I finished but also on a full ride meant a lot to me.
 

BD: If you didn't play professional soccer, what other profession would you want to try and why?

EM: No doubt I would try to be Jennifer Hudson's back up singer.  People laugh at me for that, but music is a huge part of my life and come on, its Jennifer Hudson - that lady can blow!
 
BD: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

EM: Hmmmmm probably the size of my head. Some, I mean a select few, could say its a bit larger than others, I just think i have more brain power than most!
 

BD: Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert or neither? 

EM: I can't really pick one over the other. I think they both bring a lot to the table and humor into situations that need it the most.  So i would say they are pretty even in my book.  Jon Stewart definitely has more dry humor and Colbert makes you be on your toes at all times,

BD: Who is your favorite athlete of all-time?

EM: I would have to say my older brother Tyson Masar.  He is someone that I grew up watching play soccer and one of the best athletes I have ever seen (even if I'll never admit that to his face). He chose to follow his education over a soccer career in college however he still managed to win a national championship with Illinios' club team. He is the the reason I started playing and the reason I keep going even when I can't seem to see the next step. The player I most try to immulate every time I step on the pitch.
 

BD: What are your thoughts on Chicago's bid for the 2016 games?

EM: I think anything that will bring employment to a city is a step in the right direction.  I am not sure how the city would deal with the traffic yet the rumor is that in Salt Lake City Olympics they had horrible traffic before the but than after they were so much better because the highways had to change.  If that is the case with 55 and 90/94, I am all for it!!!!

BD: Many soccer players deal with long-distance relationships. Do you have any advice or tips on keeping a long-distance relationship strong?

EM: Communication. Whether you are countries apart or just miles, communication is key.  It is the small things that get you through the days, not the big.  Never forget to say I love you and know, if its love no waters could/can quench it.
 

BD: Who is the craziest/funniest player on the Red Stars?

EM: Hands down Natalie Spilger. I have never met a human being as unique as her and never will again.  One of the smartest people I know but at the same time can be so far fetched I think she could be from another planet! no joke

BD: Do you Twitter?

EM: Yes sir, I think it is a great way for an athlete to reach out with his/her fans.  I even do it with my closest friends from college and enjoy keeping an eye on them from miles way.  My name is emasar3, come follow me.

BD: Extra Credit - Before games do you have a certain routine, or ritual you try to keep in order always on game days?

EM: Yes I do.  I usually try to get there around 3 hours before and head out to the fields before anyone get there.  I then put on the song "Prime" from transformers (dont laugh til you hear it) and start juggling a ball a bit.  I can not really explain the feeling but standing in Toyota with that song in the back ground and the ball at my feet is my sanctuary. It gets all the jitters out and then allows me to head back in the locker room and goof around with my teammates before game time.

BD: Thanks Ella and best of luck in the 2010 season.

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