Meet the Freshmen: Lauren Haivala

This fall, the Oklahoma soccer team will welcome five freshmen into the Sooner family in Lauren Haivala, Madissen Lewis, Kristina O'Donnell, Ivanna Rivas and Madison Verge. Starting with Haivala, a native of Edmond, Okla., who attended Deer Creek High School, SoonerSports.com will provide fans a quick introduction to these new Sooners over the next few weeks.

Why I Chose Oklahoma:

I have been an OU fan my whole life and I have always wanted to play soccer at OU since I was a little girl. Once I had the opportunity to play here I knew OU was the right choice for me.

Being an Oklahoma native and being able to play college soccer in state means so much because I have also been a huge Sooner fan and my family will be able to come to every game.

My favorite Part of OU/Norman so Far:

Rooming with Ivanna (Rivas) and Maddy (Verge), and meeting new people

Something I'd like for Sooner Fans to Know About Me:

I love chocolate.

My Biggest Strengths as a Soccer Player:

I am a smart and technical player.

Some Areas I'd Like to Improve in as a Soccer Player:

I think speed of play can also be improved.

Major:

Business

Three Words that Describe Me:

Hard working, determined, caring

Hobbies and Interests:

I love fitness and lifting. I also love the mountains and snowboarding and hiking.

Favorite Food:

Cheese quesadillas

Favorite Song:

"Too Good" by Drake

Favorite TV Show:

"Prison Break"

Favorite Movie:

"If I Stay"

Pre-game Superstition/Ritual:

My handshake with Ivanna Rivas (Haivala and Rivas played club soccer together for OFC 98)

Favorite Quote:

“Fall seven times, stand up eight.”

Roommates:

Ivanna Rivas, Maddy Verge

Celebrity Crush:

Liam Hemsworth

Favorite Professional Athlete:

Lionel Messi

Favorite Person to Follow on Social Media:

Jay Alvarez

Favorite Sports to Watch Other Than Soccer:

Football