Artis Curiskis ’18, hailing from Minneapolis, has already been making quite an impact on the men’s soccer team this season. On Wednesday, Sept. 10 against Coe College, the midfielder equaled the school record for most assists in a game with three and on the following Saturday, scored his first goal of his collegiate career against Webster University.
How was the first game of your collegiate career?
The first game of the season was a fun game to play. It was my first game back from injury over the summer and being back on the field with the team was really good. Things worked out really well.
Did you know you had tied the record for most assists in a single game?
I heard about [the record] and I don’t necessarily agree with it because I got the assist of an assist and I don’t really consider that [an official] assist. I don’t know how accurate that is, but the first two assists were good teamwork plays. The last one was a bit iffy.
How did it feel to get the “three” assists?
It’s easier to get three assists when you have a good, quality team surrounding you who’re able to help you out. Playing with the three captains—Joey [Brown ’15], Elliot [Meyer ’15] and Michael [Hurley ’16]—they’re the ones I’ve been working with the most, so being able to work with them and get those assists is definitely down to their work ethic.
What is the goal for this season?
Definitely to win Conference! We’re going to aim big because I think that’s the only way to aim. The team spirit is super positive this year, and it’s a lot more of a team emphasis and putting the team ahead has been [stressed] a lot by Coach [Brian] Jaworski and Coach Parker [Koester ’09]. It’s all worked out well and it’s proven to be helpful.
How have you adjusted to the team as a first-year?
As a freshman, it took a bit to get used to and I’d say it’s a different physicality at the collegiate level than at [any] other level, but overall [teammates] have all been so accepting and so helpful that it’s been very easy to make the transition. I think all the players who have been in the team for a long time are people who have taught me something so far or have shown me a different way to do something and have pushed me to work harder every practice. The three captains are captains for good reasons.
What has been your favorite thing about Grinnell so far?
My favorite thing about Grinnell so far has been just how kind and accepting everyone has been and how there’s very little stereotypes that generate through the campus.
What’s your typical Friday night like?
My typical Friday night usually consists of me hanging out with my roommate and my floormates, having a good time and then socializing a bit and then resting a bit for the game the next day!
