The Torch

Issue date: 10/25/07 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Curtis McCain Kori Wilgus, sophomore forward, is team leader in goals for the team and the NWAACC.

When she's not on the soccer field leading the Lane Titans in goals, diminutive forward Kori Wilgus is just like any other college student. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends and boyfriend and puts in her time in the classroom.
On the field however, there are few like her. Wilgus enters Saturday's game against Southwestern Oregon leading not only the team, but also the Southern Division in goals scored, with 18, also adding seven assists. As a freshman last season she led the entire Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges in goals scored with 32.
Wilgus comes from a soccer family and has been playing since she was young. Her younger sister, who is currently a senior in high school, is coming to Lane next fall to play for Head Coach Dean Smith, while her older brother looks to continue his soccer career next fall as well. Her parents also have always been involved in the sport throughout the years.
"I've been playing soccer since I was six or seven," Wilgus said.
Wilgus has a strong support group in her family and their knowledge of the game helps to keep her humble all the while she absorbs tips and guidance, even if it comes in the form of constructive criticism.
"My parents aren't afraid to tell me when I play poorly…I really appreciate them and what they have to say," she said. "After every game, as much as I don't want to hear it, if they say I played like crap, I'll be like 'yeah, you're right, I have to suck it up.' They push me to be better."
While many players take an aggressive physical approach to the game, Wilgus has found a non-violent way to be extremely effective. She may float like a butterfly, but as her opposition can attest to, she can strike and stings like a bee.
"For the most part, I'm not a real physical player, I don't get in there and elbow and try and hurt girls, I usually just try and use my speed and burn them. "I'm not real big on physicality… but I can be, I look small but I will try!" said Wilgus with a chuckle.
The small girl with the big heart is confident in her team's ability to compete with anyone, including undefeated Clackamas whom they were able to play to a tie earlier in the season.

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