DeKALB | He hasn’t been the flashiest or the highest scorer, but when it comes down to crunch time, defender and midfielder Chris Rufa has been the go-to guy for the men’s soccer team.

The junior is second in the MAC in assists per game at 0.50, but more importantly, is tied for second in game winning goals per game at 0.25.

The Northern Star sat down with Rufa to discuss his favorite hobbies, his goals for the team and his future after college.

NS: Coming off last season’s success, what would it take for this year to be considered a successful season?

CR: I think definitely staying focused, keeping ourselves in smart situations and not getting ourselves in trouble on and off the field. Also we have to prepare mentally and physically at practice.

NS: Now this season isn’t even over yet, but once you graduate do you think you’ll go on to the next level?

CR: It’s something I’m considering, yeah. I played with a couple of professional development teams. If it happens, it happens. Right now I am just looking to get my degree and get a job and everything. But if it happens, it happens.

NS: Obviously soccer is your life, but do you have any hobbies outside of soccer?

CR: I’m big on sports. I like watching all sports; Mainly basketball and football. But a lot of times [my friends and I] just hang out, play bags and cook out. Stuff like that.

NS: Do you play any video games when you’re “just hanging out?”

CR: I do it every now and then. I play FIFA, Madden and a little bit of Halo. But I don’t play a lot of video games.

NS: What about movies?

CR: I watch a lot of movies. I just like all types of movies, but funny and action movies particularly.

NS: Funny movies huh. Who do you think is the funniest actor?

CR: Mike Myers or Will Ferrell. I would say those two.

NS: Alright, now the tough question. Cubs or Sox?

CR: I’m probably more of a Cubs fan. I was raised to be a Cubs fan by my grandpa, but I go to both games. I like going to the games a lot; White Sox and Cubs. But I have to say a little bit more for the Cubs.

Lacy Searcy is a Sports Reporter for the Northern Star.