Iowa State freshman Aili Tanke explains how she found out she was starting her team's season opener from

Iowa State freshman Aili Tanke reflects on first college start

Ames native earns first start of collegiate career

Tanke earns her first career start for the Cyclones

**AMES, Iowa -** Iowa State freshman Aili Tanke earned her first career start for the Cyclones on Friday night against Northern Iowa. The Ames native played 51 minutes in the Cyclones' 1-0 win. "It was an amazing feeling," Tanke said. "I've been working so hard for this moment, and it was finally here. I was just so excited to get out there and play." Tanke said she found out she was starting about an hour before the game. "I was really nervous at first," Tanke said. "But once the game started, I settled in and just played my game." Tanke said she was pleased with her performance in her first start. "I thought I played well," Tanke said. "I made a few mistakes, but I also made some good plays. I'm just going to keep working hard and improving." Tanke is expected to start again for the Cyclones on Sunday when they host Drake. **Cyclones open season with 1-0 win** The Cyclones opened their season with a 1-0 win over Northern Iowa on Friday night. The lone goal of the game was scored by junior midfielder Grace Conway in the 78th minute. The Cyclones controlled the game from the start, outshooting the Panthers 14-3. Iowa State also had a 7-1 advantage in corner kicks. "I thought we played really well tonight," said Iowa State coach Matt Fannon. "We created a lot of chances and finally got one to go in. I'm really proud of the team's effort." The Cyclones will be back in action on Sunday when they host Drake. The game is scheduled to start at 1 p.m. **Tanke's journey to Iowa State** Tanke is a native of Ames, Iowa. She played her high school soccer at Ames High School, where she was a three-time all-state selection. Tanke committed to Iowa State in the fall of 2021. She is the first player from Ames High School to play for the Cyclones since 2013. Tanke is expected to be a key contributor for the Cyclones this season. She is a versatile player who can play both midfield and defense. **Conclusion** Iowa State freshman Aili Tanke is off to a great start to her collegiate career. The Ames native earned her first career start on Friday night against Northern Iowa and helped the Cyclones to a 1-0 win. Tanke is expected to be a key contributor for the Cyclones this season.