Right sock, left sock. Right cleat, left cleat.
Tatiana Coleman doesn't miss a step in her pregame ritual.
Coleman, freshman forward on the women's soccer team, was recently named the Southeastern Conference's offensive player of the week.
"It's not easy," Coleman said. "You don't become the SEC offensive player of the week by just sitting there and not working hard. I work really hard in practice so that I can play well in games."
Coleman's hard work is paying off. She is the first Auburn freshman since 2002 to be named player of the week.
Coleman also scored a hat trick against Kennesaw State.
Coach Karen Hoppa said this is an achievement most college players never attain.
"As a freshman, that's an amazing feat," Hoppa said. "It shows what an exciting career she has in store."
Hoppa said Coleman is the total package as a forward and just right for Auburn's team dynamic.
"She can do it all. She's fast, athletic, skillful with the ball, scores goals, and she can defend," Hoppa said.
From Boca Raton, Fla., Coleman chose Auburn because of how welcoming the coaching staff and teammates were.
"They made me feel at home," Coleman said. "The girls on the team were really inviting and included me in everything they did. They were really comfortable to be around."
Coleman began playing soccer when she was 5 years old.
Tess Patton, teammate and freshman in physical education, has known Coleman since they began playing soccer against each other at 12 years old.
Patton said Coleman is a fast and technical player that puts forth a good effort.
"Our Auburn team is like a family and everyone gets along," Patton said.
"She fits in great," Hoppa said. "I think the team really respects her and is excited that she's part of our program."
Coleman said she is honored to have a year with her current senior teammates and has high hopes for this season.
"I'm looking forward to making it further than Auburn has ever made it," Coleman said.
"You have to work hard to get where you want to be. If you don't work hard, you're not going to get the results you want."
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