Vanderbilt's Sarah Fuller becomes first woman to play in Power 5

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Vanderbilt’s Sarah Fuller became the first woman to participate in a Power Five conference football game when she kicked off to start the second half against Missouri.

Fuller kicked off the turf with a holder rather than using a tee, and she sent a low kick to the 35-yard line where it was pounced on by Missouri’s Mason Pack.

Fuller didn’t get any other opportunities as Vanderbilt lost 41-0.

The senior goalkeeper on the Vanderbilt soccer team joined the football team after helping the Commodores win the Southeastern Conference Tournament last weekend.

Coach Derek Mason says Fuller was the best viable option because of COVID-19 protocols and restrictions.

Part of the reason Fuller has the opportunity was due to COVID-19 and that Vanderbilt had a limited number of specialists able to make the trip due to contact tracing.

“I think it’s amazing and incredible. But I’m also trying to separate that because I know this is a job I need to do and I want to help the team out and I want to do the best that I can,” Fuller told Vanderbilt’s website. “Placing that historical aspect aside just helps me focus in on what I need to do. I don’t want to let them down in anyway.”

Fuller is coming off the college soccer season, playing in nine games for Vanderbilt. Last week Fuller helped Vandy’s women’s soccer team to an SEC title by defeating Arkansas 3-1. Fuller had three saves in the match.

Fuller is also using the opportunity to raise funds for charity. She will be wearing a sticker on the back of her helmet “Play Like a Girl.” The charity provides STEM education opportunities for young girls.