Bonnie Cabot, an undergraduate from Washington D.C, is a class of 2025 student majoring in behavioral science with a track in neuroscience. She also served as the captain of the Women’s Varsity Football team, usually playing center midfield.
“I tell my teammates before every game, ‘I don’t care if you make mistakes, I just care that you never give up. ’”
Bonnie, class of 2025, captain of the Women’s Varsity Football Team
Q: What first drew you to football, and what keeps you playing? How has your connection with your teammates shaped your journey?
I started playing football when I was seven years old because my older brother was a huge role model in my life. He played football, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. Growing up, I tried all kinds of sports—swimming, sailing, skiing, and ice skating—but soccer was always my favorite. I feel a unique joy when I play that nothing else compares to.
My teammates are another big reason I keep playing. They’re like a second family to me; being part of the team means so much.
Q: How would you describe the dynamics within the women’s football team at DKU, and how do practices and preparation evolve leading up to competitions?
The women’s football team shares an incredibly special bond. Despite the wide range of skill levels, everyone gives their all, working hard and supporting each other every step of the way. On a regular day, our practices focus mostly on drills to improve technique, followed by a scrimmage to apply those skills in a game-like setting. However, the intensity ramps up when we’re preparing for a competition. While the structure of practice doesn’t change drastically, the mindset does. There’s plenty of laughter and silliness (particularly during water breaks) on most days, but you can feel the shift in focus while leading up to tournaments. Everyone becomes more driven and determined, channelling that extra energy into ensuring we’re ready to perform at our best. It’s that collective focus and commitment that sets the tone before an important game.
We’re friends first and teammates second. It’s hard to put into words how much this team means to me. It’s become such an important part of my life here at DKU, and I know I’m not alone in feeling that way. School can be stressful, but the team provides a supportive, loving environment as well as a fun and competitive outlet. I’m constantly inspired by my teammates’ dedication. It’s especially impressive to see women who have never played football before showing up to every practice and game, rain or shine, and giving it their all. As a captain, it’s deeply rewarding to witness how much they’ve grown and improved—it makes me so proud to be a part of this team.
Bonnie and her teammates celebrated after the 2024 DKU Invitational.
Q: Can you share some impressive competitions from your football career at DKU that stand out?
One of the biggest highlights of my football career at DKU was beating NYUSH last spring. It was such a rewarding moment because it represented how far we had come as a team. When the team started just a year earlier, we struggled to get 7–10 girls to consistently attend practice. Fast forward to last spring, and we had 20 girls showing up three times a week, all working incredibly hard to improve.
That win felt like the culmination of all our effort and determination. Our first game against NYUSH in 2022 was a tough loss, something like 9-1, so to turn things around and achieve such a meaningful victory showed just how much progress we’d made. It’s truly special to see those quantifiable improvements—not just in our skills, but in our teamwork and commitment as well. Moments like that remind me why I love this team and this sport so much.
We defeated UNNC by 6-1 in the recent Sino-Foreign University Cup. This game was also a particularly special moment for me, even though I couldn’t play due to an injury—I was so proud of everyone. As a captain, it was hard not to be on the field with my teammates, but watching them play so exceptionally well filled me with pride.
Our success was driven by more than just talent. The girls on our team are not only skilled football players but also incredibly kind, supportive, academically bright, and hardworking individuals. Their determination and teamwork shone through in this match, and it’s those qualities that made the victory so meaningful.
Bonnie was dribbling the ball.
Q: What has football taught you about resilience, leadership, or teamwork that applies to your daily life?
Football has taught me the importance of always putting my best foot forward and being a leader, even when it’s inconvenient or challenging. It’s not just about showing up when things are going well—it’s about being present and supportive no matter the circumstances. Even on my worst days, when I’m feeling overwhelmed or off, I know my team is counting on me.
This responsibility has helped me grow, not just as an athlete but as a person. It’s taught me resilience, accountability, and the value of being someone others can rely on. Knowing that my presence and effort contribute to the team’s success motivates me to push through and give my best, even when it’s difficult.
Q: How do you mentally prepare for critical moments in a game, and does that approach translate into other aspects of your life?
Football is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. You could be the most talented player in the world, but without mental focus, that talent won’t amount to much. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of confidence on the field. You can’t let a single mistake derail you, nor can you allow anger or frustration to take over when things don’t go your way. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about staying composed, bouncing back, and keeping your head in the game.
As captain, I’ve come to understand how vital it is to never give up, even in the toughest moments. My teammates rely on me to set the tone, keep the energy high, and maintain focus, no matter the circumstances. This responsibility has pushed me to grow mentally stronger and more resilient.
This mindset translates into other areas of my life as well. Whether I’m facing academic pressures, personal challenges, or unexpected setbacks, I approach them with the same determination and focus. I’ve learned to stay grounded, adapt to challenges, and keep moving forward, knowing that giving up is never an option—not on the field and not in life.
Bonnie hugged her teammate on the field.
Q: Are there any traditions or unique aspects of DKU football culture that you cherish?
What I cherish most about DKU football is the sense of community and support. As a team, we’re always there for each other, both on and off the field. It’s especially meaningful when the men’s football team comes out to cheer us on, and we make it a point to show up and support them as well.
Coach Alex plays a huge role in fostering this supportive culture. He emphasizes that a team isn’t just about talented individuals—it’s about building a family where everyone feels valued and connected. This spirit of mutual encouragement and camaraderie is what makes DKU football truly special to me.
Q: What are your personal goals for the upcoming season, both as an individual player and as a team leader?
My primary goal for this season is to recover fully from my current injury so I can return to the field stronger and ready to contribute to the DKU leg of the Sino-Foreign Cup. As an individual player, I aim to continue refining my skills, increasing my physical fitness, and staying mentally sharp to perform at my best.
As a team leader, my focus is on fostering growth and unity within the team. I know there’s always room for improvement, both individually and collectively, and I’m committed to pushing us to work harder, communicate better, and reach new levels of performance this semester. Ultimately, I want to help create an environment where everyone feels supported, motivated, and proud to be part of DKU football.
Ready to Take on Your Own Challenge?
