Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/561254
C O U R T E S Y S E AT T L E U N I V E R S I T Y Soccer star By Madelyn Reese MEET THE ATHLETE As a teen, Eric Forner spent a lot of time playing soccer and rugby. During his senior year at Jesuit High School outside Sacramento, California, his soccer team earned the No. 1 national ranking and his rugby team won the high school national championship. Eric went on to attend and play soccer at Seattle University, winning a Division II national championship and graduating in 2008. He recently graduated from the University of Washington School of Law, works in downtown Seattle, and plays for the WAC's newly formed soccer team. Why did you join the WAC soccer team? It provides a structured and competitive soccer experience I could balance with work. We have a great group of like- minded young professionals that all happen to be good soccer players. They understand the demands of playing competitively while striving to excel in their working lives. In school, how did you balance your studies with sports? The best way I found was to understand that school and sports don't always demand equal time. When I had downtime in one area I tried to put all my energy into the other. You traveled with the U.S. under-19 national rugby team. How was that? Playing against some of the best competition in the world was great. Rugby is a developing sport in the U.S., and it can be tough to know where your team stands in comparison to the more- developed rugby countries. Outside of soccer, how does the WAC fit into your current lifestyle? It is so convenient. I try to work out and catch a steam either before or after work. I also plan to try some new activities and take advantage of all the opportunities the WAC offers. Off the field, what's your favorite way to stay fit? I run, especially outside now that the weather is nice. I also still play rugby. It provides a great full-body workout. 56 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2015 COURT SPORTS Badminton Nights The WAC gym hosts open badminton play on the first and third Wednesdays of every month. First and third Wednesdays: 7:30–9:30 pm; free for WAC members Basketball Coach—Donald Watts Donald Watts, a former Husky and professional basketball player, brings his master coaching to the WAC. Washington State Consensus Player of the Year in 1995, Watts reached his heights in Seattle with two NCAA appearances. He motivates with a progressive technique that combines the mental, physical and technical aspects of the game. Sign up to work on your game one-on-one, with a partner, or in a small group. Contact Darin Barr at 206.464.3074 or dbarr@wac.net Basketball (Women's Team) Interested in playing for the Women's WAC Basketball Team? If you're a female WAC member age 21 or older, contact Athletics Program Manager Darin Barr at 206.464.3074 or dbarr@wac.net. Handball Instruction Members of the WAC Handball Club are offering free instruction for beginner and intermediate players by appointment. WAC members of all ages are welcome. Come experience the game of handball. Contact Athletic Programs Manager Darin Barr at 206.464.3074 or dbarr@wac.net International Court Soccer (ICS) International Court Soccer is played on a racquetball or squash court using a specifically designed ball. Traditionally, the game is played one-on-one. ICS appeals to a range of ages and skill levels. ICS soccer balls can be checked out at the 6th Floor Sport Shop. Court reservations: 206.464.3095 Info: www.internationalcourtsoccer.com Racquetball Events The WAC Racquetball Club invites all players to these weekly events, which take place on the 8th Floor courts.