Before Carolina Ascent takes the field for its third season, CLTtoday had the chance to chat with two members of the team's roster.

Meet Defenders Sydney Studer and Reese Tappan. We asked them about everything from their soccer journeys to what they're expecting from the season ahead. Studer made her debut with the team in 2024, while Tappan was recently signed from Spokane, WA.

Fun fact: Tappan and Studer attended and played at Washington State together.

Editor's note: Some quotes were cut for brevity.

Q: You've been with the Ascent since its inaugural season. What's different heading into season three?
Studer: "Obviously different for me, but I think coming from maybe now a fan perspective, I think that's pretty cool."

Q: How does it feel playing in Charlotte? What excites you about the city?
Studer: "I think it genuinely is people coming to the games. I went to an adult league kickball game that my friends in Charlotte were playing, and I saw girls wearing Ascend scrunchies. They didn't know who I was or anything, but that means they've come to a game or an event and enjoyed it."

Q: This is your first season with the Ascent. How are you feeling before the season?
Tappan: "I couldn't pass up this opportunity. I got here like a month ago, so I've been settling in, and everyone here has been super welcoming and helpful. So I feel right at home. And the Ascent is a great team. I think the way they play and how they're organized as a unit is really like admirable from the outside because you know they have a game plan and they're going to stick to it.

Q: What would you say are you most excited about for this season?
Tappan: "I think we've had a great preseason. Every week we've gotten better, and you can see the growth of what we're trying to do. We're super excited to get our first game and get the win."

Q: How would you say the fanbase fuels you?
Studer: "If you watch me at practice, you wouldn't be like, 'oh my God, that's your All-League soccer player.' But at the game, I need the fans, I need the music, I need to see the jerseys everywhere. Everything that the fans bring is what I need in order to play the game. Personally, without a fan, I would not be playing soccer."

So, what can fans expect this season? If Studer and Tappan have anything to say about it, plenty of energy on the pitch — and plenty of reasons to cheer them on. Mark your calendar for the home opener, happening Saturday, Aug. 29 at 7 p.m.