Jen Terry

By John Hepokoski
UWRF Sports Information

Roseville Parks and Recreation saw the first glimpse of Jen Terry's soccer skills when she was four years old.

Today, Terry is a sophomore contributor for the UW-River Falls Falcons where her emphasis is being a defensive midfielder.  

Throughout her soccer career, Terry has played every position.

"When I was 11, I even played goal keeper!" said Terry.

Terry attended Totino-Grace High School and aided its effort to reach the Minnesota State Championship in 2002. She earned three letters in soccer and two in track & field.

Terry is the daughter of Bob and Jill and has a younger brother, Matt (17).

Terry did not even think about coming to play for the Falcons until her mom filled out the athletic interest form on the internet.

"It wasn't until one of the scouts called me and asked me if I was interested in playing soccer at college that it got me hooked onto River Falls," said the 5-1 midfielder. "The first time I visited, it felt like home."

Influenced by her parents, Terry appreciates all that they have done including coming to every game even when it's five hours away.  

Terry is also influenced by her Aunt Elizabeth who has an interesting link to soccer.

"What is so cool about her is that she played on the first women's soccer team at the University of Minnesota," said Terry. "What I didn't know until she told me was that she was also No. 7 and played as a center midfielder."

In her freshman season with the Falcons, Hermes made 15 appearances and took three shots on goal. She also was on the River Falls Dean's List following each semester.  

"Jen has made a great transition to being a more defensive player," said Falcon Coach Sean McKuras. "She knows what she needs to do to help the team win."

So far in her sophomore campaign, Terry has recorded three goals and one assist.   Her first collegiate goal came against Northland early in the season helping River Falls to a 7-0 win.  

"I have learned so much from Sean," said Terry. "The most important thing that I learned is that throughout the season there will be changes made on and off the field and there is a good reason for them. It is for the good of the team and learning to trust those decisions was really hard for me at first."

Terry's favorite childhood memory was being in a neighborhood water-ski show.

"I got to climb the giant pyramid, a mini one, and be in the women's ballet line. I love waterskiing."

Listening to music, singing and playing the flute also occupy Terry's time.  

Terry is also involved with Christian Fellowship events, Bible study for athletes, and enjoys playing basketball.  

When asked what is different about her from last year, Terry responded, "I am working on staying composed, confident, and making smart decisions."