Aubrey Balota '26 Recruiting Profile

Hello!  My name is Aubrey Balota and I am a sophmore at University High School in Normal, Illinois.  My GPA is a 3.92 and my 8/9 PSAT score is a 1010 which is in the 88th percentile.  I've played soccer since I was six years old and desire to play at the highest level possible.  

This past year I played for Central Illinois United (CIU), previously known as Eclipse Select Central IL, as an attacking midfielder.  In our first year in the GA, we finished 3rd in the Mid-America bracket qualifying us for the summer playoffs where we advanced to Nationals finishing in the top 8.  I have been captain of my team for several years and try to lead by example through my play.  My aggressiveness, decision-making/vision, passing skills and competitiveness is what sets me apart from others. According to my CIU coaching staff, I'm described as a threat to opposing defenses with my physical style of play and scoring mentality. This is evident as I have led my team in goals and/or assists since I have been playing competitively. 

Most recently, I finished my freshman year of high school as the starting forward on our varsity team.  I led my team in goals and assists; and most importantly, I helped my team become the very first Intercity girls soccer team to win a state championship.  My High School coach described me as a team player who works hard and loves to listen and learn.  I was named All-Conference (Central State Eight), Academic All-Conference (Central State Eight), All-Sectional (IHSSCA), Freshman candidate for All-State (IHSSCA), Chicagoland Soccer All-State Team, BVM Sports Athlete of the Month and was nominated for Central State Eight Girls Soccer Player of the Year.  My team was awarded State Farm Female Team of the Year, Chicagoland Soccer Final 50, BVM Sports Team of the Month and was nominated for Central State Eight Team of the Year.

I'm also actively involved in my school and community.  I was recently selected to be on the Girls Academy Advisory Panel. This amazing opportunity has allowed me to better my leadership skills while forming connections.  My goal is to pursue a degree in Forensic Science/Criminology and attend a college where I can push myself both athletically and academically.