Ariel Hester '27 Recruiting Profile

My journey with soccer began when I was just three years old, but it wasn't love at first kick. My parents encouraged me to explore other extracurricular activities, and I discovered talents in ballet, swimming, gymnastics, skiing, and music, playing both the piano and violin. Swimming, in particular, became a passion, and I competed at a high level for four years.

However, soccer would make a comeback when I was nine, and I tried out for Walnut Creek Surf's competitive team. Making the second team was a thrill, and I realized I had potential. Balancing soccer and swimming, I continued to excel in both.

The following year, I earned a spot on Walnut Creek Surf's first team, forcing me to choose between competitive swimming and soccer. I chose soccer and spent the next four years training under FIFA legend Coach Sisleide do Amor Lima (Coach Sissi). This decision led to remarkable opportunities with Surf Select, ODP and NorCal PDP.

As I entered high school, I set my sights on college soccer. Joining Mustang SC 09G ECNL allowed me to compete at an elite level, playing outside back, winger, and striker. My strengths include a resilient mentality, expertise in 1v1 situations, and exceptional field vision. Resilience fosters a growth mindset, helping me overcome obstacles on the field. Through consistent practice, I've developed muscle memory defending from the back. While, a 10-day residential soccer camp at TOVO Soccer Academy further enhanced my field vision, now one of my strongest assets. I recognize strategic formations (i.e. diamonds, triangles), making effective passes and guiding teammates to check their shoulders.  

Soccer is a big part of my life, training with my club 3 days a week and personal trainer 1 day a week. I am inspired by legends like Alex Morgan and Carli Lloyd and now up and coming US Women’s National Team players - Naomi Girma, Crystal Dunn and Trinity Rodman. While I am only 15 years old, I aspire to play in college because of my passion for the sport and desire to continue playing at a high level.  Playing soccer has taught me invaluable life skills, like discipline, resilience, teamwork, and perseverance that have shaped me into a confident, adaptable, and driven player.

However, beyond soccer, I'm committed to academic excellence. After ending my freshman year with a 3.61 GPA, I currently hold a 3.8 GPA in my sophomore year, taking some honor courses. Outside the classroom and soccer field, I prioritize relationships and community. I cherish time spent with my younger brother, who has special needs, and connect weekly with my Jewish teen group in volunteer work to focus on making the world a better place and strengthening my Jewish heritage.

As a student, I have demonstrated leadership qualities in various ways.  As a collaborative and results-driven person, I have consistently demonstrated leadership skills through my academics and extracurricular activities.  I have guided my Varsity & club teammates, directing the back line, teamwork, effective communication, and fostering inclusivity.  As well as lead volunteer efforts in my Jewish teen group.  

I believe I not only have the talent to compete for a college team, but the character, work-ethic, and dynamic leadership to make an immediate impact on your program.  Thank you!