University of Oklahoma Athletics
Signature Series: Kaylee Dao
October 25, 2019 | Athletics
I couldn't imagine playing soccer anywhere else. The University of Oklahoma checked everything off my list. It wasn't too far from my hometown in Tulsa, the campus was exactly what I was looking for and the coaching staff was great. I was intrigued by what Coach Potter had to offer in terms of his vision for the soccer program. I wanted to be a part of building a program. That was my selling point.
Fast forward to now, I have completed my undergraduate degree with a double major in environmental sustainability and social sciences and organizational studies, and I decided to stay on another year to work towards a master's degree in human relations, as well as play another season for OU soccer. I view this year as a bonus. It's a blessing being able to work towards earning another degree from a prestigious university like Oklahoma. On the field, there's nothing like being in a leadership role and helping the underclassmen through their transition into college life and helping build players that are going to be key parts for our team going forward. Just like Oklahoma invested in me, I wanted to invest in the future of this program. I know I would've regretted my decision if I didn't decide to stay for another year.
Going into my final year of eligibility, I thought about the past four years and all the accomplishments I have made on and off the field. For example, I was named a finalist for the 2019 Senior CLASS Award in college soccer, which is an award given to a senior who has notable achievements in four areas: community, classroom, character and competition. Being chosen as one of 10 finalists would not have been possible without the resources OU Athletics has given me throughout my career. I really do feel that this honor is not just about me, but about my teammates, coaches, family and the OU community. We all earned this together.
OU has an incredible leadership program that starts right when you step on campus to when you leave. The program is called "Emerging Leaders", which you do every month or so with other student-athletes who are sophomores and juniors. You get the opportunity to connect with campus leaders, including our Athletics Director, Joe Castiglione, to discuss the best ways to lead in certain situations. You grow in a way that challenges you. Once you reach your senior year, you can participate in a similar program called "Captain's Table". These programs have helped me grow as an individual and leader. I've really learned what skills are needed to excel in leadership, and I look forward to taking these lessons learned and using them for the rest of my life.
The appreciation for other resources made available to student-athletes, such as nutrition and strength training facilities, cannot be understated. Not having to worry about what I'm going to eat or getting to a place that has first-class equipment has made my life so much easier. All I need to focus on is how I can utilize all the resources to become the best possible person, teammate, athlete, friend and student that I can be. Just as I wanted to be a part of building the soccer program, OU Athletics has truly built me.
