Sloan Miller '22 Recruiting Profile

Sloan Miller

Class of 2022

Personal Statement NCSA

What do you want to do when you grow up?  That’s the cliche  question grownups ask kids for half of their young life.  Well, by the end of summer in 2014, at least part of that timeless question was answered for me.  Like most youth soccer players, with any amount of serious ambition for the game, I watched the US compete in Brazil for the World Cup.  The stand out player for me was Tim Howard.  The fierce passion he displayed on the field fueled a fire within that I didn't realize I had.  Until that summer, my time on the field was spent as a forward, shooting balls toward the net.  However, when the fall season began, I asked my coach if he would give me some playing time in the box to see how I liked it.  It wasn't long before I realized that being a GK is where I belonged.

Growing up while playing soccer, especially as a goalkeeper, has given me a plethora of life skills along the way.  The most important one, however, is how to be a leader.  I think to be an effective goal keeper you have to be an effective leader.  This requires learning how best to communicate with your team, especially when someone has a different idea or opinion than yours.  I've learned to not sweat the small stuff.  After every game I try to reflect on the takeaways, how will I apply them in the future, and then move on.  

Every game brings new challenges, new obstacles to overcome.  My naturally competitive nature fuels my ability to rise to each challenge and obstacle with which I use in the classroom as well.  I set the bar high for myself both on the field and in school.  I have always been academically strong, a “brainiac” as my mom calls me.  Aside from playing soccer in college, I also plan to pursue a degree in engineering.  

 I have been exposed to more than just competitive club soccer. For the last three years, I have also earned a spot in the ALODP pool followed by attending the ODP Regionals, and played in two interregional events.  Additionally, I have been fortunate to participate in several residential soccer camps, ID camps, and train with so many incredible coaches and professional players including  Matt Vonoekel, the goalkeeper for the Birmingham Legion USL team. 

I am constantly striving to improve my game, focusing on skill, technique, and endurance.  I am confident that I will be ready for the challenge and rigors of being a collegiate athlete.  Thank you so much for taking the time to check out my player profile and learn a little about me.