Mariah Jallings '15 Recruiting Profile

When I think about my future, I can't picture myself without soccer. It's simply impossible. I started playing as a young girl and ever since, I've been hooked. From orange slices at half time to championship games, through every practice and grueling conditioning session, I have grown into a well-rounded, dedicated student of the game. And as a student of the game, it is a personal goal of mine to learn something valuable from each season. No matter what the stats were, if it was a good season or an awful one, I can honestly say there has not been one yet that I haven't gathered something useful. Even when I'm losing I'm learning. I want to play collegiate level soccer because I don't feel as though I am done learning yet. I'm still hungry for the game. I have personally seen too many people lose their chance to continue not to capitalize on my own opportunity. I believe I am a good candidate for recruitment because of my enthusiasm for the game. I am coachable, dedicated, focused, and driven by a desire to mature not only as a player but also as a person. I have a very positive, optimistic attitude but can be serious at the same time. Which I think is an important attribute, especially on the field. It is easy to get frustrated when things aren't working out on the pitch. But maintaining a positive vibe throughout the team can make the difference. At the same time though, a team needs focus and structure. It keeps people (or at least me) motivated to play smart. Soccer is primarily played with the feet, yet it requires you to play with your mind as well. I try my best to be a role model for younger players on my team by showing my dedication at practice, and being a good student. School is very important to me. As a student athlete at the high school level, I have received A's and B's in my classes.