Richard Bland Names Uziel Hernandez Athlete of the Week
SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, Va. – Richard Bland College freshman men's soccer standout Uziel Hernandez/The Villages, Florida has been named the Athletics Department's Athlete of the Week for the period October 2-8. The forward led the nationally-ranked No. 15 Statesmen to a pair of victories last week, including a 5-3 road win at Region X rival Louisburg (N.C.) College on Oct. 4 and a 9-1 home win past in-state region opponent Patrick Henry Community College on Oct. 7. Hernandez started both matches, posting one goal and one assist against the Hurricanes, followed by two goals and two assists against the Patriots. He has started all 14 contests this season for Richard Bland (13-1, 11-1 Region X), totaling 10 goals (four game-winners) and seven assists for 27 points, ranking first on the team in assists, while second in goals, game-winning goals and points. Uziel is tied for 14th nationally in game-winning goals (4) this week, while tied for 41st in points (27), tied for 45th in goals (10) and tied for 47th in assists (7).
Please see below for a brief Q&A on his Athlete of the Week selection. Athletes of the Week are chosen by members of the Richard Bland Athletics Department.
Q: How does it feel to be named Richard Bland Athlete of the Week?
UH: It feels amazing and I'm very honored to be named Athlete of the Week. It has been my goal since I first heard about the award, and I'm very happy and fortunate to earn this great accomplishment.
Q: How did you get started in your sport and how long have you played?
UH: I started playing when I was eight years old with the support of my parents and family members who made me the player I am. I have been playing for 11 years and my coaches have also had a big role in my life.
Q: What do you like most about your team?
UH: The bond that we share with each other and the way everyone always has your back whenever you're in need of help. The competitiveness and strong desire everyone has for the sport and the hard-working ability that each of us brings to practice.
Q: Who is your funniest teammate/why?
UH: Jamie McAvoy (from Ayr, Scotland). Even though his accent is difficult to understand, everything he says is just funny because of the way he pronounces everything.
Q: Do you have any pregame rituals/superstitions?
UH: I usually point to the sky before a game to honor my grandfather who had a big part in my life.
Q: What is your favorite place on campus/why?
UH: Statesman Hall, usually to ball out and shoot a couple of baskets, or in the weight room to workout.
Q: What is your favorite class/professor/why?
UH: Algebra with Jason Pode, Instructor of Mathematics. He is very helpful and very understanding. He tries very hard to help you understand the lesson so that you'll do well in his class.