Taylor Plays 100th Game with Team USA

LONDON, England – You need a little something special to mark a milestone.

Midlothian, Va. native and Syracuse alum Shannon Taylor, who earned her 100th cap with the U.S. Women's National Team, got more than just a gift from her fellow teammates today. To mark Taylor's milestone, the U.S. defeated Spain, 3-1, to keep their World Cup qualifying dreams alive at the World League Semi-Final in London.

U.S. striker and 2012 Olympian, Taylor, joined the National Team in 2010 and has been a leading goal scorer for the U.S. since transitioning from the backfield to the forward line.

Taylor found the back of the net in the gold medal match against Argentina at the XVI Pan American Games in Guadalajara, qualifying Team USA for the London Olympics. In London last summer, Taylor once again came up big against Argentina, scoring the lone goal of the match and topping the No. 2 world ranked team on the international stage, 1-0.

Taylor was an All-American for Syracuse in 2008, leading the Orange to its first ever Final Four appearance as she set a program single-season scoring record.

USA Field Hockey sat down with Taylor at the World League Semi-Final to hear her thoughts on competing in her 100th match for Team USA.

USA Field Hockey: What is it like to represent and play for your country in 100 international matches?
ST: It is truly an amazing feeling and an honor to be able to represent our country on the hockey pitch. It was always a dream of mine to be a part of this group. Being able to play 100+ caps is just an added bonus and great opportunity to be able to stand next to my teammates and play together as one.

USA Field Hockey: Do you remember putting on the U.S. jersey for the first time and competing in your first cap with Team USA?
ST: Yes, I definitely remember my first cap. We played Argentina at home in Chula Vista, California and I was playing full back. It was a game I'll never forget. It was a dream come true for me to be able to become a part of such a special group of people that represent our country. Putting on the USA jersey for the first time and every game after is something I cherish forever.

USA Field Hockey: What is your favorite with Team USA thus far in your career?
ST: My favorite memory of being a part of Team USA is winning the Pan American Games. It was truly a memorable tournament and a turning point for U! SA Field Hockey. We came together as one group, took on each game individually and let things work out themselves. At the end of the tournament we stood and heard our national anthem play for the world to hear. I am very honored to be part of that group and cherish every moment I spend on the field in the USA jersey.

USA Field Hockey: You already achieved the Olympic dream – so what's your next goal?
ST: My next goal is qualifying for the World Cup. That is where we are at the moment and to look too far ahead is unrealistic for me. In an ideal world, I'd love to play in a World Cup Tournament and another Olympi! c Games.

USA Field Hockey: How long do you see yourself wearing the Team USA jersey? Are you looking as far ahead as 100 more matches?
ST: I see myself playing for as long as my body will let me. I am focused on the moment and each opportunity that presents itself. To be able to play for 50+ more or 100+ more competitions would truly be amazing.

Syracuse University Athletics

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