Melissa Collins '18 Recruiting Profile

Ever since I was little, I have loved every aspect of playing sports. I remember playing tee ball at the age of 5. The first time I stepped onto the soccer field, I knew this was my favorite sport.  I felt invincible when I played.  I started playing on the 3rd and 4th grade travel team, we had a full schedule along with weekend tournaments. This was what got me to fall in love with soccer. 

I started out as a right wing, as I had a lot of energy. I also had a strong right foot, so I got the cross over well. Eventually as I got older, I got more defensive minded. I wanted to try and prevent players from scoring goals. So, in 6th grade on the Junior High team I switched to the left midfielder. I also developed a strong left foot while playing the wing, as I would switch between right and left. I played midfield for 4 years. 

My freshman year, during the playoffs; my varsity coach switched me to defense. Since we were in need of a strong defensive player, she though I would be a good fit. I have loved playing that position ever since I began. I am a very strong player so defense was the perfect position for me. Throughout my varsity career, I have played in two state championship games.  Along with it, I have been starting for the varsity team since I was in eighth grade. I think I am a great candidate for collegiate soccer because I am a good team player. I want what is best for the team, and if that means changing positions I will be more than happy to comply. I am very versatile, as I have played every position in my high school and junior high career, even goalie. 

As far as academically, I think I represent a good all around athlete. I have achieved academic honor role every semester throughout my junior high & high school career. I played 3 sports, soccer, softball and basketball; so there really wasn't a time while I was not playing during the school year. Balancing practice with school work, along with having a job as a waitress was definitely difficult. However, I did push through everything despite the difficulty. I even obtained my LNA license while playing basketball Junior Year and now currently work 2 jobs; waitress and being an LNA. I feel like this says a lot about my drive and dedication. Maintaining honor role while competing in athletics and working two jobs was a big challenge for me; and I feel that it sets me apart.