Salisbury University field hockey sophomore Kandice Hancock is this week's featured athlete in the Capital Athletic Conference.  Hancock, the 2007 CAC Rookie of the Year, is second on the team in scoring this season and trying to help the 13-time defending conference champions to another title and run into the NCAA Tournament.

What is the background in the sport you play?  I have been playing field hockey since about fifth grade. In high school, I was a four-year varsity starter. My senior year, I was MVP and earner First Team All-State honors. Last year as a freshman at Salisbury, I started and played in every game of the season. I participated in the NCAA semi-final game, which will always be one of my most memorable experiences. I was also very honored to earn the award of CAC Rookie of the Year.

What is your favorite spot on campus?  My favorite spot on campus would be the Field Hockey locker room in Maggs Fitness Center. I spend a lot of my time there, especially during season. Whether it is before a game, studying for class, or even catching a quick nap, it is very convenient. My teammates and I have shared many fun times there as well!

What is the most important societal issue facing college students and why?  I think the most important societal issue facing college students is alcohol.  Alcohol seems to play a key role in many college students' lives. There is always an issue with underage drinking at most colleges, and I believe that is due to the availability of alcohol and how it is easily supplied by older of-age adults. Also, alcohol-related incidents like fights, DUIs, and sexual harassment cases are common issues that continue to grow today.

What is your major in college and what is the most important thing you learned in that discipline?  My major is Exercise Science. Because I am only a sophomore, I have not really been too into depth with courses towards my major yet; however, I am excited for what lies ahead. My main goal is to take what I learn in Exercise Science and use it towards admission to a Physician's Assistant (PA) school.

Other than your family members, who was the most influential person in your life?  Other than my family, I would have to say my teammates and coaches have been the most influential people in my life. Last year, as a freshman in college, I was very inexperienced and out of my element in such a new atmosphere. My teammates were there to support me and encourage me along the way. They helped me to fit in and made my transition into college very smooth. My coaches are very knowledgeable, inspirational, and helpful both on and off the field!

If you could give one piece of advice to elementary school children, what would that advice be?  If I could give one piece of advice to elementary school children, I would tell them to enjoy the fun times while they can. Cherish the special moments like recess, gym and school lunches! There are definitely times when growing up that I have wanted to go back to that one recess and not have to stress over big term papers and exams. At the same time, I would tell the kids not to wish life away because even though they will learn many great life lessons, it is not always fun and easy to grow up!

What is your favorite form of entertainment?  My favorite form of entertainment is watching movies. I love watching any kind of movie, especially if I'm with the right person or group of people! Comedies are probably my favorite because I like to laugh, and I also enjoy remembering specific lines then reciting them for humor.  I think Wanda Sykes is hilarious! My favorite line to say is from the movie Blue Streak with Martin Lawrence. He dresses up as a pizza man and delivers pizza to a police station saying, "Hot pizza!"

Outside the Capital Athletic Conference, who or what is your favorite sports person or team?  I watch just about every sport, but my favorite sports team would probably be the Indianapolis Colts. I have always been a fan of Peyton Manning and how he conducts himself out on the field. He is a great quarterback, leader, and role model. He also led the Colts to the Super Bowl two years ago and earned MVP!

If you could have dinner with any three people, real or fictional, living or dead, who would it be? I would like to have dinner with Wanda Sykes, Sandra Bullock, and my Aunt Mae. Wanda Sykes is a famous comedian and actress. She my favorite comedian by far, and I would enjoy to have dinner with her because I know it would be fun and I would probably be laughing the whole time. Sandra Bullock is my favorite actress. I have seen every one of her movies, Miss Congeniality 1 and 2 being my favorites. She is very intelligent and is outstanding at what she does. I would really like to have dinner with my great aunt who lives in Arizona. I do not see her that often, but when I do she is always very sincere and caring. She was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and has fallen very ill. She has been supportive of me in school and in sports, and I appreciate her love and kindness.