London Ulmer '29 Recruiting Profile

As a young child, I struggled with severe ADHD.  No matter what, I just couldn't manage to sit still or pay attention for very long.  Even though I was fortunate to attend a small private school that could accommodate many of my learning needs, and have engaged and supportive parents, I couldn't help but feel like something was "wrong" with me.  Thankfully, soccer changed everything.  

When I started playing soccer at the age of 7, the constant movement and beauty of the game was able to hold my attention for the first time in my life.  I felt like I finally belonged somewhere--- that "somewhere" was on the pitch.  My natural athleticism helped me to learn the sport and execute plays and drills without difficulty, and I quickly became a standout in my club.  Finally being able to "do something right" made me feel proud and confident in a way that nothing else had been able to.  For that, I will always be grateful to the beautiful game. 

Now that I am older, I no longer struggle with ADHD and I am an excellent student. The growth, development and confidence that I have gained as a player and a person would not have occurred without having this sport in my life.  I see my skill and soccer IQ continue to improve year after year and season after season.  I am constantly looking for ways to improve my abilities, including playing in three different states on three, high-level teams (Girls Academy; U14 Elite Showcase Team; U19 Elite Showcase Team), and undergoing independent soccer, strength and agility training locally, in Virginia (HP Elite and Beyond), and in Florida (Iconz Elite; Eddie Johnson).  Soccer has allowed my natural leadership abilities to flourish, and I have made loads of lifelong friends on and off the pitch because of what I've learned by being a part of a team.  

 I train and practice tirelessly, not because I have to but because I WANT to. I feel alive and whole with the ball at my feet, and that is why I want to play for as long as my body and my skill will allow.  My ultimate goal is to play soccer in college and professionally. I may not always be the fastest, strongest, or most talented in whatever environment I find myself in, but I can and will outwork ANYONE in support of my team and my potential as an athlete and person.  I believe that with my tenacity and the guidance and love of my family, God, and the right college program/coach, I can't help but to succeed.