My soccer experience began at the young age of 4, upon joining The St. Giles "Rockets", an all boys rec team. A short six years later, I tried out for my first travel team. Despite the fact that I was one year too young to try out, I jumped the gun as I couldn't wait to be a part of a more competitive environment. After making the Premier team, I became motivated to be the best player I could. I tried out for, and became a part of, as many teams as I could, from ODP, to CESA Premier, to Eastside High School's varsity team. Before I knew it, it was junior year of high school and time for college soccer recruitment. Two years later, I was moving myself into Furman University for preseason, about to embark on five of the most pivotal years of my life.

 

As the last 18 years have been all consumed with soccer, it is no surprise that I've gained more than just foot skills, soccer smarts, and a fast 40 yard time. Soccer has granted me countless, impactful experiences, from amazing travel to some of the best friends I've ever been acquainted with. These experiences have molded me into the person I am today, and the person I will be tomorrow. As long as I can remember I have been a part of a team, cooperating with different personalities in order to reach a common goal. As I often tried out for new teams during my younger years, I quickly developed an enthusiastic and outgoing personality towards new people.

 

Involvement in soccer has enabled the development of values that are now definitive of my personality. As my career advanced, opponents became more challenging and teammates developed, influencing me to become increasingly competitive, motivated, goal oriented, and hard working on and off the field. Good coaches and supportive teammates have taught me to be a strong leader, understanding the importance of encouragement alongside constructive criticism. Balancing soccer with rigorous academic course loads, both in high school and at Furman, has forced me to master time management strategies, stay disciplined, and develop organizational skills. Being a part of an environment full of challenges has taught me to stay positive and encouraging towards others in the face of adversity, and not let the bad in a situation overwhelm the good.

 

The most impactful opportunity granted to me thus far in my athletic career, has been the opportunity to attend a top-tier, private, liberal arts college, Furman University. I have obtained so much knowledge, experience, and maturity as a Furman student-athlete that will give me the tools to become successful in future ventures. In the future, I hope to use my knowledge and experience in a graduate assistantship position leading to a career in a communications field, specifically public relations.

 

I will be forever thankful for the impact soccer has had on my past experience, present personality, and future successes.