Hometown: Danville, California (originally from Edinburgh, Scotland)

Degree: M.S. in Sport Administration, 2003

Tell us about the responsibilities involved in your current position.

As the head coach I oversee a staff of six full time employees, with 2 full time assistant coaches and 4 other support staff in the areas of academics, strength and conditioning, athletic training, and equipment. Our yearly cycle deals with on field training either as a team or individually, recruiting, scouting of opponents, involvement in the Regional Olympic Development programs as well as an entire summer of youth camps. It is my responsibility to maintain the budget as it pertains to scholarships, general administration, and recruiting as well as operations. I am also asked to do a great deal of public speaking either regarding our University or about the recruiting process in general.

What is your favorite part of being a head coach?

The 20 regular season games and NCAA postseason as well as seeing our student-athletes be successful in any area of their collegiate experience, either athletically or academically.

Given your current career path, where do you see yourself in ten years?

I hope to either remain at the University of California as the Head Coach or work in the world of athletic administration as an athletic director of a major Division-I school.

Have you observed any changing or developing trends currently occurring in your field-what do you see as the future of the field in which you work?

The recruiting process is happening earlier than it did 5 years ago, which is placing undue stress on prospective student-athletes and their families. These young ladies are being asked to determine their path in life as early juniors as opposed to late seniors, and it is not what is best for the sport, nor these young ladies. Due to the early nature of the commitments there has been an increase in transfers from institutions, which is a trend we need to end as soon as possible. The future of women's soccer is very bright with attendances up at the NCAA level, significantly increased youth participation by the millions, and strong interest in the professional women's league.

How did your education at Mississippi State help prepare you for working in your field?

My time at Mississippi State as both coach and student was very beneficial. I first learned the value of hard work in that it is not easy to compete with schools like Tennessee, Georgia and Florida in the recruiting and coaching world. I also learned the value of good people as I found the people of Mississippi to be some of the kindest and most family oriented people I have ever been around. The education itself prepared me to deal with life as a coach due to the indepth understanding it gave me in administration as it relates to sports.

Would you make any recommendations to recent graduates currently looking for internships or other positions in the field?

In choosing a profession it is important you love what you do and make a hobby out of your work. There will always be tough days, but if you love what you do, you will resolve any and all issues and get back to what brings you joy.

• Neil McGuire's bio on the California Athletics website