Sarah Schaffer '24 Recruiting Profile

My name is Sarah Schaffer and I am in the graduating class of 2024.  I have played field hockey since I was 7 years old and I have always trained and competed at high levels.  I played club field hockey at WC Eagles from age 8 to age 14.  When I began high school, I transferred to my high school coach's club team, Firestyx, allowing me to play and train with my high school teammates year round.  

Since I was a little girl, my goal has always been to play field hockey in college on a competitive team.  When I was 11 years old, I was afraid that I had to give up my dream when I ended up in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, weak, sick, and fighting for life.  Fortunately, after a few days I was feeling like myself again, but facing a chronic disease that would forever change my life-Type 1 Diabetes.  Everything was different after that.  I struggled with the fact that I was different, at exactly the age where everyone just wants to be like everyone else.  My field hockey community supported me, and I began to learn to play the game again while managing my blood sugars.  It was a tough road, but I made it.  I continued to train and improve my skills.  I became more aware of my body and its needs, and in turn, became a better athlete.  There are many days that I wish I didn't have to live with this disease, but I do believe that so many good things came from it.  I appreciate everything so much more, I am more responsible, more independent, and most importantly, more resilient.  I am a strong person, and I believe I can always be better, smarter, and kinder, no matter what obstacles I am facing.  

I have become a versatile player, and can play competitively in any position on the field.  I have played primarily at the midfield position in high school, but can easily step into the role of a forward or a defender.  I am very team oriented, and will work hard to give my team their best opportunity to win.  I always work hard.  I am driven.  I am motivated.  I am constantly pushing past my limits.  I want to succeed.  I am looking for the school that will continue to help me grow athletically, academically, and personally.  I am ready for the opportunities lying ahead of me and excited for new challenges.