Gillian Holder '18 Recruiting Profile

Soccer has been a huge part of my life for as long as I remember. I started at U5 rec league, progressing to select U11 and varsity soccer at my high school freshman year. I'm now on a MRL team and I really want to continue my soccer career at the college level.

I play defensive midfielder for both my high school and club team. I attack from the back when I have space, and use give-and-gos with the center midfielders to continue up the field. If I have the space I will take the opportunity to take shots on goal from outside the 18. I take the ball out of the air with my head and continue to work on trapping the ball from the air. I find holes in the other team's defense, and my passes are precise and timed well for my teammates to be able to continue forward play. This year I am a co-captain for my high school team. Being a junior captain is uncommon, but I am confident I will lead the team to another state run. I take charge on the pitch and call out any open marks, but I love to be silly and and have fun with my team. My coach recognized this too and that's why he asked me to be captain.

Academics are very important to me, and I manage my time to put my studies before my social life. I was inducted into the National Honor Society, and have been on the honor roll for all of my high school years. My parents have always challenged me , and I am thankful for that. I have been able to live up to my full potential as a student, and as a soccer player as well.

I love to be goofy with my friends and find new adventures. I absolutely love to travel. My mom and I lived in New Zealand for 3 months during 5th grade so I could attend a unique school and experience life from a different perspective. I was able to fit right in and be comfortable. I know the life skills I gained there will serve me well in college and beyond. I'm also looking forward to my second mission trip with my church this summer. Last summer we spent time in food pantries around the city providing meals for the homeless.

I was a state level gymnast placing in the top 10 at my final state meet. I currently am a varsity golfer for my high school team. Now I concentrate on soccer, with golf being a fun accompaniment.

Finally, I've raised pigs for 4-H, to save money for my first car and college. I'm also a super artistic person, and hope to incorporate my love of art and design into my college career.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I hope it gives a little bit of information on who I am!