Madeline Pfister '16 Recruiting Profile

I have always been a very active and outgoing person.  At the age of 3 years old I had open heart surgery and many worried that I wouldn't be as active anymore.  I believe I proved them wrong.  Since that surgery, I have been completely released and as the doctors at Riley Children's Hospital suspected, I was even more energetic than before!  My goal is to stay active, fit, and lead a healthy lifestyle.

My parents have supported me in all my sporting endeavors, despite both of them being professionals who work full time.  I am the youngest of 3 girls and have been to many athletic events with my parents when I was very young because my older sisters were both dedicated and involved in sports.  I have always been interested in sports, and began playing soccer at a very early age when I saw our high school team play.  The way they played with such dedication and understanding as a team influenced me to grow up like them.

Over the years, I have played a variety of sports including softball, basketball, and soccer.  However, I found that I like the challenge, fitness level required, and skills needed related to soccer.  I also enjoy being able to expand my understanding of the game and share my love of the game with others.  During the summer I  assist with coaching and refereeing our youth soccer leagues and work youth camps.

By playing soccer in club league for 3 years, recreational leagues, and in high school, I have not only gained an increased understanding of the game, but I have learned how to be a part of a team.  Soccer has taught me dedication, competitiveness, and how to achieve something by being a team player.  I have also applied this competitiveness and drive in my academic achievements in school.  In high school, I strive to be the best of the best.  I like to challenge myself with honors classes while juggling extracurricular activities.  Although it is stressful, I like the challenge and I could not imagine my life without all the chaos.  I do not like to lose, and I do not like to give up.  I will continue to work for the goals I have set for myself in order to attain a successful, happy life.  I believe that you only miss the opportunities that you don't take, and I am excited to be able to work toward a career that I desire.  Soccer has been a large part of my development as a teenager and a young adult, and I will work hard to continue to include it in my academic future.