Caitlyn Thornton '18 Recruiting Profile

   Sports have played an important role in my life.  I started playing soccer and softball at age four.  Over the years I have made many friendships, of which I still have today.  My love for sports has grown.  I saw a friend play field hockey in middle school, the bond she had with her teammates and pride wearing a school uniform, made me want to play field hockey. Little did I know then how this would change my life.

    In high school the thought of playing with upper class men was intimidating at first, but during camp and practices, the support from coaches and players took my fears away.  With all the positive experience and influence of my teammates, I decided to play lacrosse as well. Now that I am an upperclassman I see the importance of teaching and encouraging the underclassmen. It is a key element to make our team stronger and our future more successful.

    The hard work and discipline required to play High School and Club field hockey has made me a better athlete, student and all around better person. I have recognized how dedication to training and pushing myself has made me a better athlete. Working in a team atmosphere has given me more confidence in myself, l have learned to organize my time more efficiently and to stay focused and to have a persistent work ethic.  I've become a better advocate for myself to meet the demands of being a student and an athlete.  I see the effects of positive attitude and that hard work for something I really do pays off.  Recently I have assisted in coaching middle school players to encourage them to play in high school.  I have also helped coach softball clinics for younger girls and spoke to Girl Scout troops about positive my experiences through sport. 

    This year my team went undefeated in our conference, won the league and went on to play in the State Competition. It was an amazing experience and one of the reasons why I want to continue playing field hockey in college. It was not just about winning; it was about the team work, the persistence and not giving up that made us successful. I am a better student athlete because of this.

    As I look forward to life after high school, I would like to pursue a career in the field of exercise or sport, physical education or occupational therapy and possibly work with children. I want to continue to be part of a team and the sport I love. Playing field hockey has given me self confidence and has made me a better person. I will continue to work hard and reach my goals at the college level. In doing this these life lessons I've learned through being a student athlete will help me be a successful adult.