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Past Players of the Month

Each month, we recognize one male and one female US Youth Soccer Player of the Month, whose accomplishments on and off the field stick out among the rest.

The players who are selected represent a balance of athletic achievement, sportsmanship and citizenship.

Click on a year below to see an expanded list of that calendar year's Player of the Month honorees...

2018

SEPTEMBER

Amanda from Union, Ky.

Amanda is a player who always strives to make those around her better and see them and her team succeed, including helping them advance to the final at the 2018 US Youth Soccer National Championships. Amanda finds ways to positively impact her community in many positive ways off the field including participating in fundraising efforts for those that are less fortunate.

Andrew from Raleigh, N.C.

Andrew is an amazing player and person on and off the field. He has started a charity with his siblings that collects and distributes soccer gear and clothing at home and all over the world. At the same time, he has played at the Elite level for NCFC for more than seven years and currently plays in the US Youth Soccer National league.

August

Jada from Camden, Del.

Jada is an amazing dual sport athlete. Not only does she play soccer for Continental Football Club, she also made the varsity high school teams for both of her sports and made an immediate impact with her teams. Jada maintains a 3.2 GPA, and she has a passion and commitment to students with special needs.

Nathan from Cold Spring, Ky.

Nathan has been a leader from his first day of playing soccer. He was diagnosed with a brain condition called Chiari malformation in which the doctors never thought he would play competitive soccer. Nathan now plays for Cincinnati United Premier 01, which competes in the US Youth Soccer National League.

JULY

Taylor from Colorado Springs, Colo.

Taylor turned to soccer as an outlet as she has become a leader on and off the field. She has natural talent that has been accompanied by technical skills through her dedication and practice. Taylor has never missed a practice since being a part of Pride Soccer Club. In less than two years with the club, she has worked her way up from the third lowest team to the top team within the club. She is always looking to make plays for her teammates as she leads the team in assists. Off the field, Taylor has become involved in the community by putting goodie bags together for the homeless that she hands out on Saturdays. With help of friends, she has formed a group that is now creating goodie bags for children at the hospital. In the classroom, Taylor works hard to maintain a 3.0 GPA to be a leader in school.

Jamieson from Watertown, N.Y.

Jamieson is a member of Upstate United Soccer Club’s 12U and 14U teams, where he has an impact in every game as a leader. He is a talented and creative player that is a leading example of what sportsmanship is as he does not hesitate to stop during play to help pick an opponent up. When not playing soccer, he is singing in his church’s choir or participating in one of its many activities. In the classroom, his hard work is shown by his consistent good grades. Jamieson is a model player who inspires those around him with his consistency, positive attitude, and great work ethic.

JUNE

Ava from St. Louis, Mo.

Ava is an active soccer player with the Lou Fusz Soccer Club and has played in the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program. Ava is a leader on as well as off the field. Her accomplishments off the field have shown true leadership on how to balance sports with academics. Not only was she nominated by her\ teachers to receive her school’s Knights of the Roundtable Award for outstanding academics, she also received both the Excalibur Award for educational commitment and Student of the Month for her positive attitude in school. Ava Strives to be a leader on both of her Lou Fusz soccer teams and believes you are only as good as the players around you. She has contributed to both of her teams, finishing with a combined 20 wins and zero losses. Through the years, her coaches have always acknowledged that she is a true leader in the sense that she strives to set the highest standard and encourages everyone around her to put forth their best effort and positive attitude. Ava’s teammates nicknamed her “Smiley” when she joined, and it has stuck with her for her positive attitude towards life. While Ava is a great leader, she is also very humble about her accomplishments.

Joshua from Meriden, Conn.

Joshua is a quiet, consistent and strong player that embodies the quintessential teammate and student athlete. He always treats teachers, fellow students, teammates, coaches and referees with respect. When he isn’t playing, Joshua is volunteering for Meriden Soccer Club. He spends his free time fundraising, lining fields or running the concession stand. Academically, he is a model student. Joshua is a perennial fixture on the Honor Roll and was recently inducted into the National Junior Honor Society. He possesses an amazing sense of community. He volunteers each summer at camps for autistic children. Joshua actively serves in his church and is an active part of a family that founded and operates an orphanage in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. He independently organizes fundraisers to benefit the orphanage, and he enjoys trips to Haiti to serve at the orphanage in which he uses soccer to connect with the kids.

MAY

Emily from Waterford, Conn. 

Emily is an active soccer player with Southeast Soccer Club and the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program in Connecticut. She volunteers with Connecticut Special Olympics, fostering the love of soccer with this group of individuals and helping foster interest in soccer with the local Special Olympics chapter. Emily is also active in her school as a mentor in the Wingman program, which helps prevent bullying and encourages students to get along with those around them. In the summer, Emily volunteers for six weeks in local elementary classrooms with special needs children and is an excellent peer role model. In addition, Emily is an active club lacrosse player, enjoys volleyball and stays active in her church.

Dominiq from Kentwood, Mich.

Dominiq is an exceptional student athlete, an amazing teammate and a remarkable individual. He works hard during practice with Michigan Fire Juniors, not only to improve his personal skills, but to also improve as a teammate. Currently, he is a regular starter on his team and is just as happy to assist a teammate as he is to score himself, and he never leaves a practice without thanking his coach and shaking his hand. When he’s not at practice, or doing homework, he’s in the weight room, at the track or working out at home. Dominiq’s grades are impeccable, yet he strives to do more, learn more and is constantly pushing himself. None of this, in and of itself, is outstanding when comparing him to like-minded athletes. However, Dominq does all of this while battling fatigue, symptoms and treatment that come with having both Crohn’s disease and colitis. He would be the first to tell you, “I don’t suffer from IBD. It’s what I have, but it’s not who I am.” His attitude is always positive and is rooted in faith. He treats teachers, fellow students, teammates, coaches and referees with respect and has been commended for it on numerous occasions.

APRIL

Ava from Chesapeake, Va.

Ava has continuously sought to improve herself and those on her team—both on and off the pitch. Starting her seventh year of playing soccer, she recently made the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program Virginia team, while playing club soccer year-round and middle school field hockey. She is a dominant goalkeeper whose confidence and tenacious spirit has allowed her to be a leader for her travel team, Arsenal FC. Off the soccer field, Ava maintains a 3.7 GPA in honors classes, and she volunteers her time at the local animal shelters. She plans to play collegiate soccer and study neonatal nursing.

Andrew from Rineyville, Ky.

Andrew is a perfect example of a student-athlete, and his hard work has paid off as he recently signed to play soccer at the University of Cincinnati. His soccer experience includes training last summer with the U23 Columbus Crew team and traveling to Holland with his US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program team. In his four years of high school soccer, Andrew accumulated 151 goals and 77 assists. Andrew has received numerous awards, including Kentucky Youth Soccer Player of the Year, and was named to the all-district, all-area and all-state teams multiple times. On the academic side, Andrew has a 4.0 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society. He has worked with the Special Olympics as a basketball referee and regional coordinator, and he is also a peer mentor who assists with special needs students.

MARCH 2018

Katie from Fenton, Mo.
A member of Sporting JB Marine, Katie never gives up and does not want to disappoint her coaches or teammates. Katie cheers on her teammates, helps lead them and always puts them first, all while playing her position (center back) at 110%. As a team player, Katie will play any position that her coach needs her to play. Katie was chosen by her teammates to represent them in an All-Star weekend for a Sporting Affiliate event in Kansas City, which shows how much her leadership, effort, skill and selflessness are recognized. She also plays on the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program Missouri team as a defender. Katie is a straight A student with all honors classes. She volunteers at school as a Falcon Flyer and is on the tech crew for the school play.

Nicolas (Ken) from Lehi, Utah
Nicolas (Ken) has been playing competitive soccer since he was nine years old. Soccer is his passion, and when he's not playing for his team, you can find him in the backyard with his sister for hours, playing with his soccer ball. Not only does he play with La Roca FC, but Nicolas has also participated in the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program (ODP) for the last four years. Recently, he was named to the 2003 All-Star team at the 2017 US Youth Soccer ODP Boys Thanksgiving Interregional, and he also traveled to Costa Rica to represent the ODP West team. His unforgettable experience was when he was invited to the U-14 U.S. Boys National Team camp last year. In order to help his parents pay for his tournaments, he started working as a youth soccer referee when he was 12, and he also coached soccer to younger kids for extra money. Nicolas really believes that hard work and dedication are the keys for everything. He maintains a 4.0 GPA, takes several honors classes and speaks three languages.
 

FEBRUARY 2018

Savannah from West Hills, Calif.
Not only is Savannah a talented soccer player, but her character off the field should be acknowledged and rewarded. She is one of the kindest and most thoughtful students, possessing an incredible work ethic, which has resulted in her maintaining straight A's throughout her entire schooling. At her school, Savannah was the sole 5th grade recipient of the Presidential Scholar Award for scoring extremely high marks on both the mathematics and language arts exams. She was able to achieve these high academic marks all while practicing for soccer at least four times a week. After playing soccer for only three short years, her commitment to train earned her a spot on the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program (ODP) Girls 2005 team, which competed in the 2018 US Youth Soccer ODP West Championships and took home the championship title. 

Liam from Englewood, Ohio
On the field, Liam has transitioned from defense to midfield and makes notable contributions for both his club team, Metro FC, and Northmont High School. Throughout the transition of positions, Liam has been able to create offensive opportunities for his teams, earning him the Most Improved Player award for the high school season. He has taken time to mentor the incoming freshmen, preparing them for high school soccer and showing them the ropes. His helpful attitude is also seen through his care for his younger brother, who is cognitively delayed, as Liam helps him with soccer so that he can also play on a select team. Last year, Liam went on a mission trip to Ghana, where he not only played against academy teams in the country, but his group also spent time at the Feed the Children orphanage, helping serve meals, delivering goods and playing soccer with the children. 
 

JANUARY 2018

Y-Lan from Austin, Texas
Despite a busy schedule, Y-Lan manages to excel as an athlete and student. She always looks to make her teammates better and shows great sportsmanship — preferring competitive games in which both teams can have fun. Academically, she holds a 4.0 GPA while taking honor courses and is a part of the Duke University 7th Grade Talent Identification Program. Y-Lan was named Student of the Year (Math) in 6th grade and achieved a perfect score on the 8th grade math TX-STAR test. She has played soccer for four years and plays up a team, which she helped move up several divisions. She also competes in cross country and volleyball. She is also an active pianist and participates in visual arts, and she received state recognitions for both skills.

Sebastian from Medina, Wash.
Sebastian is a dedicated soccer players who currently plays a year up on his Eastside FC Red 00 team. His teammates nominated him as captain for his teamwork and leadership capabilities, and he helped the team qualify for the 2017-18 US Youth Soccer National League. He also made his high school’s varsity team as a freshman and was named rookie of the year. In the classroom, he has a 3.7 GPA, and he’s involved with the Native American Club at school. He also volunteers as a youth soccer coach, donates to Food Lifeline and has a desire to stop child hunger. In the future, he has an interest to become a sports medicine doctor to help athletes be able to compete and enjoy sports.

2017

DECEMBER 2017

Aya from Baltimore, Md.

Aya is an outstanding person and player. Similarly to all of the participants in Soccer Without Borders, she is not from the U.S. Starting from the beginning in a new community, learning the language, is just one of the many obstacles she has faced. Aya has broken down all barriers and has become one of the organization’s most driven and successful student athletes. She strives to keep her grades nothing lower than a B and takes pride in her school work. Coming from a place where girls aren't even allowed to play soccer, she has become a fearless leader on the field among boys and girls. Her kind heart and the smile she puts on through everything is inspiring. She is a role model to others in the program, and she is likely to continue to grow and push herself to achieve anything she wants.

Tristan from Summerville, S.C.
Tristan is a leader on and off the field. His commitment to his academics and soccer are commendable. He stays on top of his schoolwork despite a busy schedule that includes traveling to soccer practice four per week. He is taking four dual credit college classes — calculus, engineering, chemistry and English — while also taking AP Biology. Tristan is ranked in the top 5 percent of his class, and he has strong morals and leads by example. When not traveling for soccer he is involved in the church youth group. Through that group, Tristan volunteers at a variety of organizations. Tristan’s club team, USA/MP 01 Premier (SC), is competing in the US Youth Soccer National League in the 2017-18 season.

NOVEMBER 2017

Emily from Port Orange, Fla.
Emily started playing club soccer when she was 11 years old and has been the goalkeeper with the same group of girls up through her 19U season. Despite being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 5, Emily has not slowed down at all and keeps a positive attitude on and off the field. In addition to her soccer training, she volunteers to help younger keepers and has obtained her USSF ‘F’ Coaching License. She hopes to play in college and attend veterinary school — something she prepped for this summer while shadowing at a local vet clinic. Emily also volunteers for Oceans of Hope, where she helps people with severe disabilities to surf and enjoy the water. She is also an aid for her school’s special needs class and helps the students compete in the Special Olympics. Emily continues to look past her own adversity to be a positive influence on the soccer field and in her community.

Gianluca from Salisbury, Md.

Gianluca has played soccer since he was 5 years old, and he currently serves as a co-captain for his 14U club team. He is a well-rounded midfielder who always strives to lead his team in the right direction. He has helped his team to successful finishes and has international soccer experience, having played games in England and having trained with the 13U Scotland National team. Gianluca is a proud National Junior Honor Society member, and he has participated in community service activities through the organization. He is a trumpet player in his school band, and he has also won multiple awards in chess and math in Wicomico County. In the classroom, Gianluca has straight A's and a 4.0 GPA. In the past, he was also awarded the citizenship award. He enjoys staying involved in soccer by watching games on television or playing the FIFA video game with his friends.

OCTOBER 2017

Emilie from South Jordan, Utah
Emilie helped her Utah Soccer Alliance squad to a 5-2 win in the US Youth Soccer Utah State Cup championship game. With her team facing a two-goal deficit in the second half, Emilie contributed two goals and two assists, as USA scored five goals in 20 minutes to earn the victory. The ninth-grader is finding success at school, as well. Emilie is a 4.0 student, and she is a starting forward on the Herriman Varsity soccer team, for which she has 18 assists and five goals in 16 games as a starter. Additionally, she's a member of the National Honor Society, and she participates regularly in community service. Emilie has compassion for others, and is consistently looking to serve and lift those around her, including her two siblings.

Cody from Hubert, N.C. 
Cody is a smart and creative player, who has worked hard to be confident using both feet for all skills. As a leader by example, he brings a positive attitude to his team and makes new players feel welcome through his actions and communication. Cody takes all of his positive aspects as a player and applies them to the community, as well. He has participated on his school’s chess team, is a member of the Perrysburg Conservation Club, and he participated on his school science team. He is an outstanding student who has been on the principal’s list, maintaining an A in all subjects for two years in a row. Cody is also enrolled in the AIG program for both math and English language arts.

SEPTEMBER 2017

Janie from Slidell, La.
Janie has been a force for both her club and high school soccer teams. She is the captain of her 16-and-Under team despite playing up a year. Her club team is the two-time defending US Youth Soccer Louisiana State Cup champions. Janie was also the starting center back for her 5A state championship team as an eighth grader and made 2nd team all-district that season. She is a young lady who also excels off the field, as she has straight As and a 4.0 GPA. She also donates her off time training younger kids at summer camps. Janie is well-rounded, both on and off the field, as she looks to do her best as a player, person and student.

Brayden from Noblesville, Ind. 
Brayden has been in love with soccer since he was 3 years old and played club soccer since his 8-and-Under season. He is a leader and motivator for his team and often chosen as captain. He and his team were rewarded for their work ethic by advancing to the US Youth Soccer Region II Presidents Cup earlier this summer, and they also gained promotion to the US Youth Soccer Midwest Regional League for the Spring 2018 season. When not practicing with his club team, he enjoys refereeing for the younger age groups, and participating in Indiana's US Youth Soccer ODP program. Off the field, Brayden is an honor roll student with advanced math, science and English classes. This past school season he was selected for National Junior Honor Society and was voted "Best Student" by his teachers.

AUGUST 2017

Milana from Tucson, Ariz.
Milana has chosen to receive dog and cat donations instead of birthday presents for the past four years. Milana presents the donations to a local animal shelter each year. She is a straight A honor student who always strives for excellence. Milana is very passionate about soccer and trains 3-5 days a week and is a natural born leader, both on and off the field. She motivates and lifts her teammates, offering everyone her full support. Milana dreams of one day growing up and becoming a college and professional soccer player, as well as continuing to help animals on a much larger scale.

Kevin from Swansboro, N.C.
Kevin is a dynamic player on his Swansboro, N.C., Academy team. He successfully plays all positions on the field, including goalkeeper. At the young age of 9 years old, he has amazing ball skills and provides superb leadership for his teammates. Kevin also spends time helping other players on and off the field. In addition, Kevin was selected to play soccer for Global Premier Soccer Carolina League. He is a member of his schools chess team, Academically Intellectually Gifted program and is above grade level in all subjects.

JULY 2017

Miranda from Sunrise, Fla.
This year Miranda decided she wanted to raise the money for her club soccer fees on her own. She's done the math and realized she can make $100 per fundraiser and $20 for washing cars. Miranda created a schedule to wash cars weekly and do fundraisers at local businesses. Throughout this process she is learning the value of a dollar, determination, dedication and discipline. She does 1,000 touches a day, trains 3-to-5 days per week and managed to make honor roll every semester in school. She is on her path to making her own special soccer story and becoming a great young woman.

Bereket from Portland, Ore. 
Bereket has been successful both in soccer and his academics during the last few months. He got called to the US Youth Soccer ODP Region IV camp in his first year of ODP, which has been a huge goal of Bereket’s. Also, Bereket has continued to be extremely successful outside of soccer by finishing the school year with 4.0 GPA. Outside of school and soccer, Bereket is an intern at OHSU, the biggest hospital in Oregon. Bereket has been praised for his work by his teachers, coaches and supervisors.

JUNE 2017

Lillian from Rochester, N.Y.
Lillian has no fear on the soccer field. She has played up a year to challenge herself, and her development and love for the game grows every day. Lillian has started assisting her two younger sisters’ recreation teams. She will go to their practices and help the coach demonstrate drills. Lillian will also help work with the girls that are struggling to grasp certain concepts. The recreational players look up to her and are happy when she can join them. In school, Lillian has received 100 percent on every spelling test this year. Her other grades are right up there, as well. The teachers adore her and are proud of her work ethic, as she balances soccer and academics.

Matthew from Tinton Falls, N.J. 
Matthew McLaughlin is extremely dedicated to his team and his community. He makes sure to never miss a practice or game. Matthew gives 100 percent every time he steps on the field, whether for training or a match, and he is known as a team player. In addition, Matthew has earned an A in all of his courses this entire school year. Additionally, Matthew shines in his community. He is very dedicated to fundraising for the American Heart Association's Jump Rope for Heart and was his school's top fundraiser raising $1,551 this year. No matter if he’s on the field, in the classroom or in his community, Matthew makes an impact.

MAY 2017

Isis from Los Angeles, Calif.
Isis is a talented forward who has scored 60 goals in one season. Because of her talent and hard work, she was selected to play up an age group. She also has been able to prove her ability to be a complete soccer player — playing both forward and defense while being aggressive and using her speed on both sides of the pitch. In a clinic where Chelsea players trained with a group of boys and girls, Isis proved to be the best by giving her full effort at all times. In the end, the Chelsea players made her MVP of her group and awarded her with two tickets to their upcoming game. Isis doesn't only play soccer, but she also volunteers with Westside Children's Center. During the summer she trains to be a life guard because she thoroughly enjoys helping others. In the junior life guard competition, Isis placed second in breath compressions. At school, she speaks in front of large crowds at assemblies and maintains a 4.0 GPA.

Devon from Great Falls, Mont.
Devon is a vital member of his Montana Rush club team, playing both offense and defense. At only 16 years old, his remarkable versatility, team work and leadership is evident. At the end of a recent game, his attitude and sportsmanship shined on the pitch, as he assisted a downed opponent in stretching out after suffering from a leg cramp. Devon was recently named one of 12 “Outstanding Juniors” at his high school. He holds a 3.98 overall GPA and is the No. 1 student in the Science department, where he displays a keen interest in multiple disciplines like his Honors Chemistry and Physics classes. Devon was personally lauded by his Science department teacher as his quest for academic excellence adds to a positive classroom environment. Devon is also a leader in the community as a core team member of his local DeMolay Youth Leadership Organization. He is the Senior Councilor for William D. Cummings Chapter and is also the State Senior Steward Officer for Montana DeMolay.

APRIL 2017

Alyssa from Hamilton, N.J.
A leader from her defensive position, Alyssa always offers encouragement to her teammates. She is determined to do her best on the field and is very coachable and willing to learn. Off the field, she is in advanced learning classes and has won back-to-back county science fairs. Alyssa is the president of EarlyAct, which allows her to present ideas that will benefit the school, community, state and beyond. She also chose K9 for Kids to be the beneficiary of the school’s annual talent show, and she helped collect money to purchase 24 cases of soup to give to a local food bank. Alyssa continues to show determination, both on and off the field, to be a caring teammate, classmate, friend and volunteer.

Michael from Liberty Township, Ohio
Michael has proven to be a big contributor on the soccer field and in the community. He plays for Cincinnati United Premier (OH-S) and competed on both the CUP 00 Gold and CUP 99 Gold teams during the 2016-17 US Youth Soccer National League season — helping the 99 squad earn a division title. Michael has shown an ability to be just as successful in the classroom, as he holds a 4.3 GPA while taking honors and advanced placement classes. He also spent a week in Los Chilitos, Guatemala, serving with his church. While there, Michael assisted with an outreach program that organized soccer games with the children in the village.

MARCH 2017

Willow from East Bank, W.Va. 
Willow has always been very active in her community and has taken part in several volunteer and fundraising programs. She has raised over $1,200 in the past three years for Jump Rope for Hearts. Willow takes great pride in being a friend to her classmates and teammates. During her third year of daycare, she befriended a young girl that was legally blind. Her friend decided to play soccer, but only under the condition that she was on Willow’s team, and the two enjoyed the comradery that soccer offered. Willow has been very active in her church youth groups and has been attending AWANAS for four years. She enjoys school and has only missed one day in her first two years of her academic career. Willow is very excited about her education, as well as helping others. 

Nic from Woodinville, Wash.
Nic has been playing on the FCA A team for last seven years and has proven to be a leader. He is known for always remaining positive despite adversity and he is a great example of a well-balanced kid who has a love for the game of soccer. Off the field, Nic is an ‘A’ student who takes challenging courses at Inglemoor High School. Nic volunteers every summer for the Northshore Youth Soccer Association Camps, teaching kids ages 5-10 about soccer and helping them develop a love for the game. Despite being color blind, Nic continues to thrive on and off the field without focusing on any challenges it may cause.

FEBRUARY 2017

Kaleigh from Richmond, Ky.
Kaleigh is a hard-working student-athlete who has been playing soccer since the age of 4. Kaleigh has demonstrated great dedication, awareness and support for her team throughout her years of play. Her unselfish attitude and drive for excellence has been key in helping her club, indoor and 3v3 teams to many successful seasons. Kaleigh and her team were awarded an Athletic Achievement Award last summer from the State House of Representatives of Kentucky. Kaleigh’s hard work doesn’t stop on the field, she is also a consistent member of the A/B honor roll at her school and she takes part in FCA, as well. When Kaleigh is not at practice or games, she enjoys playing soccer with her neighborhood friends. Her future plans are to play US Youth Soccer ODP and continue on as a successful soccer player.  

Eden from San Antonio, Texas
Eden is a very talented and skillful soccer player who has shown strong leadership skills among his peers both on and off the field. His grades and behavior in school have demonstrated his ability to excel both on and off the field. Recently, Eden was awarded the Citizenship Award at his school and made the A- Honor Roll for the last nine weeks. Outside of school, Eden has committed his time to his 11U soccer team. In addition to his regular practice, Eden trains one day a week independently, plays on an indoor team and attends additional academy training. Recently, Eden was asked to guest play on his club’s 13U team for tournaments. Although, Eden strives to excel on the soccer field — playing the game he loves — he knows the true road to success is in school, and he continues to make education his first priority.

JANUARY 2017

Kati from Kirtland, Ohio
For both her high school and club teams, Kati has demonstrated great awareness, technical skills and support for teammates. She led her high school team in scoring and assists during her freshman and sophomore years, and she has been a key member of the Cleveland Futbol Club. When she is not on the field, Kati participates in youth groups, a Slovenian language group and many community events. In school, she has maintained a 4.20 GPA. In addition to her club team, Kati has played for the US Youth Soccer ODP Region II team at the Thanksgiving Interregional in Boca Raton, Fla., and she is verbally committed to play at Notre Dame.

Jonas from Chandler, Ariz.
Jonas is a hard-working student-athlete who has been playing soccer since he was 5 years old. He is currently playing in the US Youth Soccer National League with his Scottsdale Blackhawks team, and he has also been working as a referee since he was 12. He takes all honor classes in school while also practicing with his club and US Youth Soccer ODP teams, in addition to refereeing. He does much of this with his friend, Thatcher Cooper, and both boys use their down time to mentor younger referees. Jonas works tirelessly as a player, referee and student, and he hopes to play college soccer in the future to continue his involvement in the game.

2016

DECEMBER 2016

Caroline from New Orleans, La.
Caroline is a hard worker on and off the field. As a club player for the Chicago Fire Juniors, she can play anywhere she is needed, but she especially likes playing midfield. She gives 100% until the referee blows the whistle. She does not get discouraged when the game does not turn out the way she had hoped and respects all players with great compassion. She is a team player; she wins as a team and loses as a team. Caroline volunteered to coach young 6-8 year olds how to play soccer over the summer. The children loved her and look up to her greatly. She has all A's in all honors classes, maintaining a 4.7 GPA as a freshman at Mount Carmel Academy. Caroline went through two knee surgeries due to soccer injuries, but that did not slow her down. The setback only made her stronger.

Vincente from Tennessee
Vincente shows great leadership as he is the captain of the US Youth Soccer ODP Tennessee team as well as his club team with Lobos Rush Premier. He shows great leadership by uplifting his teammates to higher levels, making everyone give 100% every training session. He trains five days out of the week and three of the five are double practices. What sets him from anyone else is his desire to get better every day and never cheat himself by giving maximum effort in every training session. Vincente has a great personality. You will never not see him without a smile on his face, and he is very humble and charismatic. He is by far coachable and pays attention to the little details. His speed of play is tremendous as he plays center midfield or left or right midfield. He is a player you can count on every match to make a difference in the game. He is a dominate left-footer but isn't afraid to have a go with his right, making him a diverse player. Vincente isn't just about soccer as he takes academics just as seriously. He earns all A's and has all advance classes.

NOVEMBER 2016

Makayla from Elizabethtown, Ky.
Makayla is a selfless player who competes for both her club team and high school junior varsity squad. She plays wherever her club team needs her, and despite not being a trained goalkeeper, she has stepped up to be the main keeper for her team. A well-rounded player, she enjoys distributing the ball from the midfield and knows an assist is as valuable as a goal. Makayla is also a youth soccer referee and a straight-A student as an eighth-grader. She belongs to Green Club, Beta Club and volunteers with various organizations. She also recently participated as a buddy at her club’s US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer Festival, which she loved. Makayla continues to work hard, both on and off the field, and has a passion for helping others.

Zack from Merriam, Kan.
Zack is a hard worker on and off the field. He has a passion for reading and giving to kids who may not have the same opportunities as he has been afforded. This year, he has found organization to which he can donate books. He has donated not only books, but clothes, furniture and other needed items. Academically, he was selected for the gifted program at the age of 6 and has scored above average in standardized testing. Zack has played soccer since he was 3 and was selected for US Youth Soccer ODP in Kansas at 9. He is a top striker for his club team with the ability to play any position. Zack displays leadership to go along with an outstanding balance of academics, athletics and service to his community.

OCTOBER 2016

Hannah from Kingsland, Ga.
Hannah is an active leader both on and off the soccer field. As the captain of her team’s defense, she has been instrumental in anchoring the back line after her team moved up to a select league this season. Her energy and positive influence is continuously on display, as she is regularly the first on the field and last off during practices. Additionally, her tactical presence was unmatched despite playing in an Under-17 Boys Select league. Off the field, Hannah maintains a 4.52 GPA while being an active member in her high school’s Junior ROTC program, and she regularly carves out spare time to volunteer for youth programs in Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay. Her tireless commitment to bettering herself and all those around her serve as a model for personal and civic excellence.

Wyatt from East Bank, W.V.
Wyatt has always been very active in his community while taking on many volunteer and fundraising programs. He has raised money for Jump Rope for Hearts the last three years and finished strong last year with more than 150 jumps. He takes great pride is his position at school this year, where he walks the preschool children from the bus drop-off area to their class. Last year, he accomplished a mastery level of 4 on the West Virginia Educational Standards Test in the categories of reading and mathematics. Wyatt has also accomplished a perfect attendance for the first five years of his academic career and is very proud of this goal. On the soccer field, he always looks for players that are open to give them the opportunity to score and enjoys playing defense just as much as striker. He is a team player and enjoys making his teammates smile.

SEPTEMBER 2016

Olivia from Canal Fulton, Ohio
Olivia has been an enthusiastic and talented soccer player since she began playing the sport in kindergarten. She is an asset for her club soccer team and has shown outstanding character both on and off the field. Oliva maintains a 4.0 GPA in school through hard work in the classroom. She also volunteers to help with church mission trips and has also assisted at local nursing homes. A big challenge arose in the past year, when Olivia was diagnosed with Alopecia — a condition that leads to hair loss. Olivia is still learning to deal with the day-to-day reality of having no hair, but she continues to shine on and off the field while setting an example for others to follow.

Joshua from Flemington, N.J.
Over the past two years, Joshua — who plays for Lehigh Valley United — has collected more than 150 bags of food and raised money for the Flemington Food Pantry. After learning the highest demand for food comes in the summer months, Joshua has taken the initiative to gather donations — including 68 bags in one week this summer. The groceries and personal care products go to low-income families, which often include veterans, children and senior citizens. Each year, Joshua has asked a local store to donate bags, and he has personally drafted and printed more than 200 flyers to attach to the bags. He has also gone door to door to request donations and collected bags from willing households to deliver to the food bank.

AUGUST 2016

Abby from Rock Hill, S.C.
Abby is a rising eighth grader and plays goalkeeper for her North Carolina club team. This past season, she helped her team with the US Youth Soccer North Carolina State Cup while allowing just a single goal. She then traveled to compete at the US Youth Soccer Region III Championships in June. Abby has been involved in US Youth Soccer ODP for three years and traveled to Sweden for the Gothia Cup International Tournament in July with a GPS Bayern-Munchen FC team, where they finished the tournament in third place out of 48 international teams. As a student, Abby maintains an “A” average and has won Academic Excellence Awards and an Outstanding Student in Science Award. She was also inducted into the Beta Club at school. She feels her highest honor yet is being invited to train at the U.S. Soccer Training Center in North Carolina as a 2003 goalkeeper. Abby always works hard at school and in training, and despite her success, maintains a very humble attitude.

Patrick from Millville, N.J.
Patrick is a quiet young man who speaks loudly on the field. As center midfielder for his team, he is a leader and commands the field by controlling the flow of the ball from defense to offense — setting up his offensive players every game to score. He is relied upon for his soccer knowledge, is a superb communicator during the game and always supports the efforts of his teammates without trying focus any attention on himself. Patrick is also a straight-A student, a middle school track and cross country runner, and a devoted brother. He enjoys a challenge in school and on the soccer field, and he meets both with success. Prior to entering his middle school, his elementary school teachers and staff voted him as 5th Grader of the Year for his academics, kindness and humility. He attends Next Gen USA and Sunday school, weekly. He was selected as a Young Olympian for US Youth Soccer ODP.

JULY 2016

Jaxton from Mechanicsburg, Pa.
Jaxton has been the ultimate team player for her club team and the Cumberland Valley Middle School team. She has also played in US Youth Soccer ODP as a member of the Region I and Eastern Pennsylvania teams. Recently, she helped lead her club team to a regional tournament championship by scoring the deciding penalty kick after a double-overtime final. Jaxton traveled to England a part of the US Youth Soccer ODP Eastern Pennsylvania team and helped the side to an impressive 3-1 record against some of England's top girls programs. Off the field, she has made the honor roll four consecutive quarters — maintaining a 99 percent average while taking advanced classes. As part of her love for soccer and her desire to give back, she assists her sister's Under-10 team as an instructor and assistant coach. With Jaxton's strong work ethic, she hopes to one day play Division I soccer for an Ivy League school.

Nathaniel from Lafayette, Ind.
Nathaniel has been a key player in the midfield for his club and high school teams. His coaches cite his mental toughness, sportsmanship and agility as his top traits. This year, Nathaniel has been named to the US Youth Soccer ODP Indiana 1999 team, and as a freshman, he was awarded the most improved player award by his high school coaches. He started his academic career a year before his peers and has consistently achieved high academic success in his school’s excel program for gifted students. He began earning high school credits in seventh grade and college credits in ninth grade. Nathaniel was recently selected to participate in a highly selective honors science research class in the Purdue School of Nuclear Engineering. He also participates in National Honor Society, volunteers as a tutor at his school and occasionally assists his little brother’s soccer team.

JUNE 2016

Jordan from Bethel Park, Pa.
Jordan is a member of the US Youth Soccer ODP PA West 1999 team and has attend the US Youth Soccer ODP Region I camp for the past five years. She has captained her club team for four years while leading the side in assists five of six years. Jordan maintains a 4.3 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society. In the winter, she coordinates a six-week futsal league for her entire club, and she has participated in trips to feed the homeless of Pittsburgh. Jordan is passionate about coaching soccer and has attended two NSCAA Conventions. She also has her U.S. Soccer ‘F’ License and is working to get her ‘E’ License this summer. Jordan is interested in becoming a doctor in sports medicine, so she can help athletes overcome injuries.

Justin from Northville, Mich.
There is a long list of accomplishments for Justin in his academic, athletic and community exploits. He has posted the highest GPA in his junior class of 300 students in multiple semesters while getting all As in AP and honors classes. And he received the lone Harvard Book Award in his school. On the field, he led his club to its first US Youth Soccer State Cup title in 20 years and helped his high school team win regionals for the first time in 19 years. Justin led both teams in points during the title runs. In the summer, he volunteers to work with kids in Detroit and helps with PBJ Ministries to make sandwiches for the homeless in the city. He has also passed out food and supplies during snow storms, and he does everything while managing his time between school, sports, family and friends.

MAY 2016

Ella from Glenwood Springs, Colo.
Ella is a quiet, consistent, and strong player that lets her results do the talking. Off the field, she has earned her way onto the Principles Honor Roll three quarters in the row with perfect grades ever since starting middle school. She also knows how important it is to show up every single day and was awarded the perfect attendance award at her school. Ella’s passionate interest in sports inspired a recent essay she wrote at school that made it all the way to the principal’s office. The topic of her essay was “Why sixth graders should be allowed to play school sports," and it included research on how athletics help kids become better students. Ella is a top flight soccer player in Colorado and recently earned a spot in the newly formed US Youth Soccer ODP Colorado Mountain Region pool. She also helps out with her younger sister's Under-10 team and would even like to referee in the near future.

Ethan from Hopkinsville, Ky.
Ethan’s competitive nature and team-oriented approach make him the type of player who can help can team. He is an offensive center midfielder who looks to create scoring opportunities for teammates, which helped him lead Kentucky with 32 assists in 2015 to go along with 14 goals. He recently traveled to Holland with the US Youth Soccer ODP Kentucky team to tour and train in the Netherlands. Ethan’s work ethic carries over to the classroom, where he holds a 4.0 GPA. In addition to his studies, he takes part in several extracurricular activities at school, including the 4-H Club, Beta Club and National Honor Society. He is also a student of the local Youth Leadership team, which provided opportunities to experience how city and private businesses operate. In addition to his clubs at school, Ethan has completed several mission projects as a member of his church youth group.

APRIL 2016

Emma from Mansfield Center, Conn.
Emma is an outstanding student-athlete who is always trying to make a difference on and off the field. She has attended the leadership club at her school, and she always strives to be a positive role model for her peers. Emma is constantly practicing soccer, whether it is at her club practice or just working with the soccer ball on her own. At just 10 years old, she makes personal goals for herself and ways she can contribute to her team. Emma also enjoys helping younger players while at practice. She hopes to continue playing soccer into adulthood, and her biggest dream is to be a part of the U.S. Women’s National Team. Emma and her family are also volunteers with American Lab Rescue, in which they foster dogs until they find a forever home. Emma takes pride in helping with training and socializing their foster dog.

Xander from Bernville, Pa.
Xander has a passion for the sport of soccer and a desire to never give up. He currently plays in the Under-9 and Under-10 age group — after being one of three U-9 players asked to play up on the undermanned U-10 team. He enjoys the challenge and handled the transition well by scoring four goals in his first U-10 game. Xander also excels in the classroom, where he continues to get all As and Bs. His teachers have referred to him as a role model in school, and he helps out with a peer support group. After losing a brother to Leukemia, Xander has become involved in Penn State’s THON — a student-run philanthropy dedicated to helping families affected by childhood cancer. During THON 2016, Xander joined the Penn State women’s soccer team on stage during the dance competition portion of the pep rally, allowing him to combine his enthusiasm for soccer and giving to the community.

MARCH 2016

Cassidy from Port St. Lucie, Fla.
Cassidy is a consistent player who keep a team-first mentality whenever she steps on the field. She sets personal goals that she aims to achieve while also making sure to keep the spirits high in all of her teammates, especially during difficult times. In addition to playing soccer, Cassidy is also involved in competitive karate and is an active member of the Future Business Leaders of America program at her school, which allows her to give back to the community. Over the holiday season, she took the initiative to meet with her school principal and set up “Teens for Jeans,” which collects jeans within her entire school to provide to the homeless. In addition to her volunteer efforts, Cassidy has maintained straight As for her entire school career — providing further evidence to the dedication and sense of responsibility she adopted from playing soccer.

Sean from Puyallup, Wash.
Sean is a leader at school, in the community and on the soccer field. He plays for Washington Premier SC and was a goalkeeper for the Washington 99 team at the 2016 US Youth Soccer ODP Championships. For both his club and US Youth Soccer ODP teams, Sean is a top player and leader on the field. At his school, he is in the AP program and also part of the Mission Trek Program, which allows kids to spend their weekends volunteering in the community. Sean is a member of several other organizations and works with his local TOPSoccer program, as well. In all, he served more than 300 community service hours last year. Sean continues to make an impact in the community to honor his father, who he lost to cancer when he was in second grade, and shows his dedication in the classroom, through volunteer programs and on the soccer field.

FEBRUARY 2016

Mary Kathryn from Charleston, S.C.
Mary Kathryn, “MK,” brings positivity and humor to her soccer team while leading by example both on and off the field. She is a dedicated and versatile player who has the ability to play anywhere on the field. As a member of the US Youth Soccer ODP, MK threatens defenders as a forward, winger and attacking midfielder. She excels academically and has maintained all A’s this year while being heavily involved in extracurricular activities. MK dons several hats at her school, where she is a news anchor, safety patrol leader, flute player, member of the chorus and member of the running club. She also enjoys playing soccer in her neighborhood and helps to spread the love of the game to kids on her street. She has an inner drive and enthusiasm that helps inspire others to reach their full potential.

Cameron from Marietta, Ga.
Cameron has been playing soccer since he was 5 years old, when he became interested in the game through a friend. The two are still playing together, and Cameron shows great sportsmanship while also making impactful plays on the back line to help their Under-12 team succeed. Cameron also offers great support to his brother, Jordan, who has a disorder that causes seizers. Cameron helps his brother by volunteering most Sundays with the local US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer program, which allows players with disabilities to enjoy the game. Cameron, a sixth-grader, is the youngest volunteer, and he loves to play goalie while the TOPSoccer players score on him. In school, Cameron consistently makes the Principal’s List with straight-As and works hard to overcome any personal obstacles along the way.

JANUARY 2016

Skyler from New Fairfield, Conn.
Skyler shows great leadership on and off the field. She is a dedicated player, and she was awarded the Players’ Player honor by her teammates in the fall of 2015. In helping her team to the championship in a recent tournament, Skyler was a key member of the defense while also leading her team in assists. When not playing soccer, Skyler worked at the Ocean City, Md., Branch Library during the summer. She became the youngest volunteer ever accepted at the library and proved to be so valuable that she was asked to return the next summer. Her extracurricular activities do not slow her down in the classroom. As a sixth grader, she is at the top of her class, reads at a 12-plus grade level and consistently scores in the 95-99 percentile in math and standardized tests. Skyler is level headed and focused on her goals, and she is very humble and always pushes herself to be the best that she can be.

DJ from San Diego, Calif.
DJ makes an impact on the field for his club team at Albion SC, his school team and as a member of the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program. He displays perseverance, technical ability, aggressiveness and vision while playing soccer, and he also promotes teamwork and great sportsmanship both on and off the field. DJ plays several different positions, including goalkeeper, and will line up wherever his coach asks in any given game. Off the field, he has joined his family in helping package canned good for the homeless; donated clothing, shoes and other items to disabled veterans; and delivered food for the elderly and disabled this past Thanksgiving. DJ is also competitive in school and takes pride in being in the top of his class. He makes sure to finish his schoolwork in a timely manner before turning his focus to soccer.

2015

DECEMBER 2015

Jadia from Lewis Center, Ohio
Jadia plays all positions for her club team and also trains separately as a goalkeeper. Training with older players pushes her to focus at a higher level, a challenge that she has embraced. Jaida’s crowning moment came this season when she saved a penalty kick against a state championship team. When not playing with her own team she's often found on the sidelines cheering on other players in her club. Jaida is an “A” student in her school’s accelerated program and has received perfect scores on National and State standardized tests. She also participates in her school choir and band, as well as the service club. She received a certificate as her school’s top money-raiser for the American Heart Association, showcasing the dedication to her endeavors both on and off the field.

David from Canton, Mich.
David is currently plays for the US Youth Soccer ODP Region II team, in addition to his club and varsity high school squads. For his high school team, David saved two shootout attempts in the state semifinals to help his team advance to the championship game. As a sophomore, he received the Coaches Award and Academic Scholar honors at his school, while maintaining a 4.0 GPA in his advanced honors classes — placing him in the top 1 percent of his class. He is also a member of the District Equity Leadership Team, PCEP Leadership Team, Key Club and his high school’s congress. David also takes the field as a referee and volunteered his time to work at the Special Olympics in that capacity. Whether academically or athletically, David knows the importance of teamwork to accomplish tasks and has demonstrated that fact with his leadership.

NOVEMBER 2015

Claire from Ogden, Utah
Claire excels on and off the soccer field. She loves the game and plays soccer nearly every day, whether it’s during recess, at practice, training or at home. She plays several positions for her club team and has been training with Weber State midfielder and US Youth Soccer alumna Chansi Crompton to help improve her skills. In school, Claire received straight A’s on her report card across all subjects in her accelerated program and recently earned the highest score in her class on her math assessment. Claire serves as a peer leader in her school and enjoys cheering on her teammates on the soccer field — where she always looks for ways to pass along compliments.

Matthew from Kings Park, N.Y.
Matthew started playing soccer at age 4, shortly after he diagnosed on the autism spectrum — which caused a hard time being involved with group sports. After some hard work, Matthew overcame his diagnosis and his anxiety of playing with a group. He has become an exceptional player and helped his 2014 indoor league team to a first-place finish while winning the golden boot for most goals scored. He is currently on an Under-7 team and helped the side take second place in the East Islip Fall Classic this past Columbus Day Weekend. Matthew continues to improve his soccer skills and impress with his ability to overcome his early difficulties with team sports.

OCTOBER 2015

Jamie from Kernersville, N.C.
Jamie has played soccer since she was 4 and has a passion for the game the leads her to practice every day. She is a center midfielder for her club team and earned the side’s spirit award for demonstrating sportsmanship, character and dedication. She has also showcased her ability and participated in US Youth Soccer ODP in North Carolina and Region III. Jamie is also an assistant coach with the Upward Soccer program to inspire others to train with dedication, principal, heart and unselfishness. Aside from soccer, Jamie volunteers with the Special Olympics, is a member of her high school Interact Club, is a Breakfast Buddy mentor and received the Distinguished Christian High School Athletic Award. In the classroom, she holds a 4.17 GPA, is a teacher’s assistant and a member of the Beta Club. She is also a basketball player and was named one of her school’s female athletes of the year in 2015.

Chase from McDonough, Ga.
Chase, a dynamic 13-year-old, continues to grow on and off the soccer field. He has been playing for four years and gives everything he has when on the field and puts in work individually to improve his skills and athleticism. His ability to understand the game and the importance of teamwork stands out as his major strengths, and he has used those skills while captaining his team. Chase is also a soccer referee and can be seen switching from playing uniform to refereeing gear on any given weekend. Outside of soccer, Chase is registered in advanced science at his school and will be presenting at the science fair this year. He currently has a 3.7 GPA, is a member of the National Junior BETA Club and can be found working several charities, including A Friends House and preparing meals for the families at the local Ronald McDonald House.

SEPTEMBER 2015

Alyssa from Waunakee, Wis.
Alyssa works hard on her development as a goalkeeper and participates in other sports and fitness program to stay fit. Her focus and positive attitude are her strengths, and she loves the intense moments that come with playing keeper. She understands the importance of teamwork and has hosted events at her house to build team unity. In the classroom, Alyssa maintains a 4.0 GPA and is active in multiple clubs. She also volunteers with Dane County Breakfast on the Farm and Race for the Cure, along with other events with her 4-H Club. She also enjoys working with younger athletes and can often be seen practicing soccer with kids while babysitting in her neighborhood — an example of her passion for athletics and helping the community.

Evan from Indian Trail, N.C.
Evan gives 100 percent effort in everything he does, whether it’s on or off the field. He has played soccer for several years and has worked hard to develop his skills. He is a leader on the field and captained both his high school junior varsity team and his club team this past season. Evan also excels academically, as he holds a 4.58 GPA and is planning on attending a four-year college next year. He has received several academic letters and bars during his high school years, became a Junior Marshal, and was selected as student of the week at his high school. Evan is also a member of his school’s student council, volunteers with canned food drives and Christmas present drives, and supports pancreatic research.

AUGUST 2015

Anthony from Akron, Ohio
Anthony is a well-rounded athlete who excels as a center back for his club soccer team, Internationals SC. He is also a standout hockey player, has won multiple events at his district track and field meet and is a successful swimmer in several events. When he’s not enjoying competing in sports, Anthony manages his time well and is a straight-A student with a GPA over 4.0. He was chosen as one of his school's ambassadors and is respected by both students and teachers. Anthony also finds time to volunteer for the cancer foundation, “Life Is Good No Matter What,” and gets involved in the foundation’s events. Anthony gives his all in everything that he does, whether on the field or track, or in the pool or classroom — and sets a great example for his peers to follow.

JULY 2015

Makena from Meridian, Idaho
Makena is a humble and hardworking soccer player, who is passionate about the game and in helping others to succeed on and off the field. She plays competitive soccer year-round on her club team, and was recently selected to practice in the state pool in the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program. In the classroom, Makena maintains a 4.0 GPA and is a member of the National Junior Honor Society. She has been involved in various community fundraising campaigns, and plays the violin in her school orchestra. Her passion for the game, and caring nature to always put others before herself makes Makena a great person and teammate on and off the field.

Charlie from Park City, Utah
In school, Charlie maintains a 3.95 GPA and was elected by his peers last year to serve on the student council. He was also recently inducted into his school’s National Junior Honor Society. He is a member of the Real Salt Lake U12 Academy team that earned a first-place finish in the US Youth Soccer Dessert Premier League this April, and Charlie led the league with 11 goals. Charlie competed in the 2015 US Youth Soccer Far West Regional Championships in Boise, Idaho last month. Off the field, he recently completed a spring service project, coaching free soccer clinic for kids in his community.

JUNE 2015

Erica from Tallahassee, Fla.
Erica is soccer player with determination, perseverance and inspiring attitude who never gives up. She is the starting center forward on her club team and scored 22 goals for her rec team this past winter. Erica displays a fierce love for soccer and provides motivation for others while playing as being a below-the-knee left leg amputee. Her resolve on the field is matched in her academic pursuits, as she finished third in the State of Florida History Fair with a report on Paralympic Games founder Ludwig Guttman. She is volunteering this summer at a horse camp for children with disabilities and has been involved with assisting the homeless through school programs, in addition to working with services that do offshore cleanup, help oyster beds and adopt sea turtles. She also developed the idea to send culturally accurate dolls with limb loss to children in Haiti through her church.

Liam from Sugarland, Texas
Liam has been playing soccer since he was 10 years old and recently was selected for the 2015 US Youth Soccer ODP South Texas State Pool for his 2000 age group. He will attend the Regional Camp this summer in Alabama and has also been invited to play for a top club in Houston. In the classroom, Liam is an A-student and an active member of the junior honor society. He enjoys science and history and finished second in his school’s science fair. Liam also has a strong record of community service, such as helping with beach cleanups and food banks. His parents’ jobs have required Liam to move several times, but he has shown the ability to rapidly adjust to new places, cultures and teammates with a consistently positive attitude. His passion on the field and behaviors set a great example for his peers.

MAY 2015

Olivia from Surprise, Ariz.
Olivia has been playing soccer for nine years, and often plays as a defender who is happiest when preventing a goal rather than scoring one. She recently earned the sportsmanship award at a tournament, and she makes sure each of her teammates enjoys the game. Off the field, Olivia volunteers often as a member of the National Junior Honor Society, as well as with her church nursery each weekend and with the Reading Buddies program at her school. She also recently volunteered at the 2015 US Youth Soccer ODP Championships as field monitor. After moving to Arizona from California, Olivia handled the adjustment well and has balanced playing with her new soccer club with achieving honor roll grades in school. She is an example of a well-rounded student-athlete who works hard on and off the field.

Henry from Hendersonville, Tenn.
In school, Henry is a straight-A student, an eigth grade class representative and a member of the Honor Society. He is on the math team and was selected to play in the top tier mid-state honor band. In the community, Henry helps teach a third grade Sunday School class and spends his summers and spring breaks serving others on mission trips. On the field, Henry is playing his first year with Tennessee United SC as a goalkeeper who leads by example and does whatever it takes to make a save. Henry has also been a certified referee for three years, which has helped him understand the game better while playing. His knowledge and leadership lead his teammates to trust him when calling out direction during play. He is a humble person and good teammate who makes an impact on and off the field.

APRIL 2015

Haven from Belgium, Wis.
Haven shines as an active team member for her Port Washington Soccer Club squad, and she has participated in US Youth Soccer ODP in Wisconsin. Her performance is just as bright in the classroom, where she is a high honor roll student who excels in all of her classes. Haven volunteers at her local nursing home — playing Bingo with several of the residents — and she also works with children with disabilities through TOPSoccer. Volunteering with TOPSoccer allows Haven to use her passion for soccer to help other kids have a chance to play while also developing her own leadership skills. She continues to work on her soccer skills and is motivated to succeed both athletically and academically while finding time to serve others in the community.

Zachary from Camas, Wash.
Zach exhibited hard work and determination after not being chosen for the US Youth Soccer ODP Oregon program in 2011. Not only did he come back and earn a selection in 2012 and 2013, but he also worked hard enough to receive an invitation to the US Youth Soccer Region IV training camp in 2013 and 2014. Zach went on to play for the Region IV team at the 2014 US Youth Soccer ODP Winter Interregional and the Washington Youth Soccer Elite Player Development team at the 2015 US Youth Soccer Region IV ODP Championships. When’s he’s not on the field, Zach has volunteered at the Oregon Food Bank and assists his club’s goalkeeper coach to help train younger players. Zach maintains a 4.0 GPA and has also received several student of the month nominations.

MARCH 2015

Annemarie from Bellmore, N.Y.
Annemarie is a hard working and dedicated player who has been playing soccer since she was 4. She started as a freshman defender for her high school team, and helped her club team, South Merrick, capture the 2013 Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association Premier League Championship. Annemarie is a team player who helps other to be at their best, and she also used the game of soccer to help causes outside of the sport. She and her soccer team collected toys, books, clothes and donations for Hurricane Sandy relief, and her high school team raised more than $1,200 for breast cancer awareness. In addition to soccer, Annemarie also plays lacrosse, volleyball and track and field.

Zane from Riverside, Ca.
Zane plays for the Fullerton Rangers, who are competing in the US Youth Soccer National League, as well as the Poly High School varsity soccer team. He is valuable to both teams and provides a humble, unselfish and encouraging presence for his teammates. A reliable player who brings confidence to teammates, Zane has the ability to play wherever his coaches need him. Zane has taken it upon himself to perform his best in the classroom, and he finished his sophomore year with a 4.5 GPA before posting a 4.8 the first semester of his junior year. He is involved in the community and volunteers at other schools while providing great support for teammates, classmates and everyone around him.

FEBRUARY 2015

Jaelyn from Henderson, Nev.
Jaelyn has played for Heat FC for several years and was an integral part of her team winning the past two US Youth Soccer Nevada State Cup titles and advancing to the 2014 US Youth Soccer Region IV Championship finals in New Mexico. She is a very unselfish player who not only scores goals, but leads her team in assists. Jaelyn is a technical player who is always looking for any opportunities to develop her game and work on her skills. In the classroom, she maintains a 4.0 GPA and carries a rigorous course load at her middle school. She is a member of student council and the Henderson Chapter of National Charity league in her spare time. In the past six months, she has acquired more than 40 community service hours for nine different philanthropies with an emphasis on those helping children with cancer, autism and cystic fibrosis. Jaelyn is always eager to give back to the community and is very motivated by doing the right thing at whatever cost.

Devon from Lower Gwynedd, Pa.
Devon is captain of both his Montgomery United SC Under-17 team and his Wissahickon High School squad. He played on the US Youth Soccer ODP Eastern Pennsylvania and Region I teams and was an all-star at the 2014 US Youth Soccer Winter Interregional. In addition to playing, Devon is also a Grade 8 certified referee. Off the field, Devon holds a 3.77 GPA and scored 1950 on his SATs. He won the Union League Good Citizenship award and was named the Soccer-Suburban 1 Scholar Athlete, in addition to being a Student Council Senator and member of the National Honor Society, Distinguished Scholarship  Roll and several other clubs. He is also a four-year varsity letter winner for his high school wrestling team and honored with the PIAA Wrestling State First-Team All-Academic Award. Devon has also collected soccer balls to send to Africa as part of the “Liberia Education Project,” in order to give more children a chance to play the game.

JANUARY 2015

Nadia from Fort Wayne, Ind.
After being born with a form of Cerebral palsy, which required numerous surgeries, Nadia has overcome the odds to play soccer. Being able to run and play at the highest levels of competition shows her determination and will to succeed. Nadia was named co-captain of her club team last season, and received the defensive MVP award this season from her high school coach. Nadia knows what it takes to be more than a player, and she displays hard work and determination during practice, workouts and while training on her own. Last year Nadia created more than 100 hand-crafted bracelets that she sold around her community and school to raise money for clean water efforts in Sierra Leone in West Africa. She serves regularly at Community Harvest Food Bank of North East Indiana, and is a volunteer Kidzone leader in her local church on a weekly basis

Kyle from Fayetteville, Ga.
Kyle plays club soccer for AFC Lightning, is a member of the US Youth Soccer ODP Region III team, and led his high school varsity soccer team in scoring as a freshman. He is a humble who player who loves the game and has never complained while overcoming Celiac Disease, which makes traveling difficult. Kyle excels in the classroom, as he has compiled a 4.0 GPA with straight-As in several Advanced Placement and gifted courses — earning him a place on the school’s high honor roll during his freshman year. He is also a BETA club member, a part of his school’s academic team and Science Olympiad team, and he serves the community through work at the elementary school. Whether on the field or in the classroom, Kyle exhibits great character and makes others around him better players and classmates.

2014

DECEMBER 2014

Rylie from Forsyth, Ill.
Rylie, a member of the Midstate Soccer Club, has been a team captain for two straight seasons and recently signed up for the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program. She is able to control the game from her central midfield position when on the field and continually works with her coaches to train and improve outside of games. Riley is a great teammate, who encourages her team no matter the situation or score of the game. Despite juggling three sports, Riley maintains an excellent academic record and has been on the high honor roll each quarter while taking advanced classes. She is also on student council and has volunteered for numerous organizations and causing, including an Alzheimer’s 5K Walk, community food drive and the county conservation district. Riley would like to continue playing soccer in college, and her success on the field and in the classroom has her on the right track to accomplish that goal.

Joe from Mukilteo, Wash.
Joe plays for NW Nationals in Washington and has led his team as the captain for the past three years while displaying great sportsmanship. He received MVP and Most Dedicated Player honors for his team and also won the club’s juggling contest in the summer. Additionally, Joe is on the Washington Youth Soccer Elite Player Development team and played for the U.S. team in the FC Barcelona Escola Easter Tournament in Barcelona, Spain in April 2014. At school, Joe receive the sixth grade student of the year award and has qualified for the National Honor Society. He has volunteered with his brother’s Boy Scout troop and at a local lighthouse festival with the Kiwanis Club. When he’s not actually playing soccer, Joe follows the game and supports the Seattle Sounders. He hopes to one day make it to their level and play professional soccer.

NOVEMBER 2014

Kayley from Rochester, Minn.
Kayley excels in soccer, as well as track and field and academics while taking part in several extra-curricular activities. She was the second-leading high school freshman goal scorer in soccer for the state of Minnesota in 2013 with 19 goals. This year, as a sophomore, she has 22 goals and is currently ranked third overall in the state of Minnesota — bringing her total to more than 40 goals in less than two seasons of high school soccer. She was selected as athlete of the week by the local TV station for all sports in September 2014, an honor rarely given to a soccer player. She has been to US Youth Soccer ODP Girls Region II camps multiple times and has worked as a soccer referee and assistant coach in Rochester. Kayley also excels in track and field, as she made the track and field honor role for 100-meter and 200-meter sprints last year. She is also an all honors student with a GPA of 4.3. She is in debate club, Latin club, student government and Knowledge Bowl. She placed Summa Cum Laude in the Latin examinations in 2014.

Morgan from San Antonio, Texas
If Morgan is not playing or practicing soccer, he is watching it or dreaming of his favorite teams. He is playing up a year this season and has had excellent efforts in the first three games, including a goal late in the first half of an eventual 4-3 win against a very skilled team. He practices four days a week with his team but also does extra training with his favorite coaches and before school. He excels in school and has never gotten anything less than straight-As in a very competitive school district. Although his first language is English, all his studies in school have been in Spanish. He is now fluent in Spanish, as well as English. He feels this will be very important in his soccer career to communicate with different players and coaches. He went to Alabama this year for the US Youth Soccer ODP Boys Region III Camp and impressed coaches with his vibrant personality, coachable attitude, skills and leadership on and off the field. Morgan is humble when he does well and rarely celebrates after making a goal. Instead, he gives the glory to God and praises his teammates for excellent work. 

OCTOBER 2014

Hollis from Larkspur, Calif.
Hollis has used soccer to make a big impact both on and off the field. She plays as a center midfielder on her club team and is a self-motivated hard worker. The 9-year-old from California has also been working on a fundraiser since the summer called “Juggling for Jude,” which raises money for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Hollis juggles her soccer ball each day, posting videos and blog posts along the way, and has set a personal best of 461 consecutive touches without letting the ball hit the ground. During the months she has been working on her fundraiser, Hollis has shown dedication to her project that combines her love of soccer with an important cause that helps other children. Her work has paid off, as she recently surpassed her goal of $25,000 raised for the hospital.

Trent from Sedalia, Mo.
Trent has played soccer since he was 5, and the game has become a big part of his life. He loves to play year round and has learned respect and teamwork from the game. Trent is always looking to play soccer in his free time and will meet friends at the local park to play. In addition to playing for his high school soccer team, the 14-year-old plays for Futura FC in the US Youth Soccer Midwest Regional League, and he made the US Youth Soccer ODP Missouri state team in 2014. In addition to soccer, Trent has worked with his family for the local soccer club for the last five years, been a referee and volunteers for community food kitchen.

SEPTEMBER 2014

Allison from Bettendorf, Iowa
Allison has a true passion for soccer, and she works very hard on and off the field to achieve her goals. She showed determination when she didn’t make the US Youth Soccer ODP team in Iowa, but she worked hard and made the ODP team in Illinois each of the last two years. Allison has helped coach her younger sister’s team for the last three seasons and is known to organize pickup soccer games in her neighborhood. She also raised more than $700 in 2012 to benefit Soccer for Success. Allison works just as hard in the classroom, as she has earned high grades in school despite having dyslexia. She treats all people with respect and doesn’t let anything get in her way and motivates others with obstacles to do the same.

Jack from Homer Glen, Ill.
Jack shows leadership and dedication to the team on the soccer field, as he has been a captain on his club team for three years despite playing up a year. He is willing to play wherever the team needs him and has lined up as a forward, midfielder and defender for his teams. Jack is an active member of US Youth Soccer ODP and helped the Illinois team advance to the 2014 ODP Championships, where he was named one of the top players by TopDrawerSoccer.com. While he has some learning difficulties, Jack has applied himself in school and worked hard to earn a good GPA and invitation to the National Honor Society. He also volunteers time to help train younger players and prepare incoming freshmen for high school tryouts.

AUGUST 2014

Kaylee from Oswego, Ill.
Kaylee has been the captain of her club team for the past four years. She recently helped her team advance to the US Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup in Greenville, S.C., where she was one of the top scorers in the Under-14 age group — recording three goals at the event. Kaylee steps up in big games, as seen by her ability to find the back of the net five times in her team’s journey to the National Presidents Cup. Off the field, she has performed more than 100 hours of community service and was listed on the high honor roll for the past academic year. At her eighth grade graduation, Kaylee received an Outstanding Academic Excellence Award from the President’s Education Awards program and received honorable mention for the American Legion School Award, which recognizes academic and community achievement.

Holden from Lexington, Ky.
As captain of Under-14 Lexington FC White, Holden helped lead his team to the top of the table in the US Youth Soccer Midwest Region League Premier 2 Division with an assist and late go-ahead goal.  He also helped his team win the Kentucky Open Cup with two assists in a 3-0 win in the final. During a busy end of May, Holden captured the Outstanding Business Student Award at his high school for work in Sports Retail Marketing. He also receive an individual award from the school for a selfless act, when he returned money he found on school property so it could be given to the owner — showing his selflessness isn’t limited to assisting teammates on the field. Holden is a leader on and off the field because of his work ethic and team-centered attitude.

JULY 2014

Ashley from Halifax, Pa.
Ashley has excelled both on the field and in the classroom. She plays for PA Classics and has also trained at the U-14 U.S. Soccer National Training Centers in Pennsylvania. She finished her middle school years with the highest GPA in her class while balancing her school work with soccer and other activities. She has done tremendous work to benefit the Ronald McDonald House. Instead of receiving gifts for her birthday, she chose to take donations for the charity organization. She has also collected donations at school and coordinated a money collection at a Harrisburg City Islander USL Pro game. Despite being one of only two girls in her grade at school to play soccer, Ashley continues to show she is proud to be a soccer player and loves the game.

Brodie from Cordova, Tenn.
Brodie plays for 00 Lobos Rush Premier, which will compete this month at the US Youth Soccer National Championships after qualifying through the US Youth Soccer National League. Brodie helped his team to a 4-0-3 record in National League play, which resulted in a second-place finish in the Under-14 Boys Blue Division. His coach has praised Brodie for his good attitude and positive influence of the squad. Off the field, he was recently accepted into his high school honors program, as well as the National Beta Club. Brodie is a regular volunteer with TOPSoccer, where he helps local special needs children build self-esteem and stay fit through soccer. He also volunteers to help with 3v3 tournaments that are held in his area.

JUNE 2014

Kelsey from Woodbury, Minn.
Kelsey is a three-sport athlete who plays soccer, hockey and golf at a high level. In each sport, she is committed to the idea of team above all else. She has captained her club soccer team for the past two seasons and does well to bring together players from various backgrounds. Kelsey is willing to step up and take on any task for the betterment of the team. Off the field, she organizes community service, such as work with Relay for Life, for her team and often volunteers at the club’s tournaments. She is also a dedicated student who realizes the importance of academics, and she works to raise money for herself to player soccer and attend camps to improve her game.

Moses from Parsippany, N.J.
Moses played for a pair of soccer teams this season, and despite being the youngest on his main club team, he led the squad in goals and assists. He also plays on a futsal team in which he scored 27 goals and registered eight assists in nine matches. Moses has a great passion for the game and displays good sportsmanship to his teammates and players on the opposing teams. His hard work and dedication is not limited to the soccer field. He is also a top student in school and works on several projects at his local church to help others in need. This spring, Moses is continuing to play the sport he loves while testing his skills in an older division.

MAY 2014

Peyton from Centennial, Colo.
Peyton is a midfielder who plays up a year on her club team in Colorado. She also competes with a 3v3 team, which won a national championship four times at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Fla. Off the field, Peyton stands out in the classroom and has been selected as the Aurora Scholar for her academic achievements. She also donates time to Project Cure, delivering meals to homebound people, as well her brother’s baseball team with Sports Made Possible — which pairs able-bodied athletes with disabled athletes, so they can play baseball. Peyton’s other passion is basketball, and when she’s not dribbling a ball at her feet, she is found dribbling one to the hoop.

Brandon from Hondo, Texas
Since he began playing at age 3, Brandon has had passion, dedication and love for soccer. He plays during the fall and spring with his club and indoor teams, and continues to work on his game while simply playing with friends during the summer and winter seasons. Brandon has competed in national 3v3 competitions, recently made the US Youth Soccer ODP 2002 Boys training pool, and uses good technical skills to compete against older players with his club team. Off the field, he competes in University Interscholastic League Number Sense — in which he finished sixth this year — and maintains good grades in school.

APRIL 2014

Chloe from Havelock, N.C.
Chloe recorded four goals and an assist on her competitive soccer team last season. She is currently on the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program (US Youth Soccer ODP) roster for the 2002 age group, and her goal is to one day play for the U.S. Women’s National Team in the World Cup. In school, Chloe has consistently made the honor roll and has been selected to join H.O.S.T. (Helping Our Students Transition), which is a group that pairs new students with veteran students to ease the transition into a new school. As a military child, Chloe knows about adapting to new schools and takes the program seriously. Chloe also plays the clarinet and helps in the classroom at her church.

Hunter from McCalla, Ala.
Hunter plays midfield and has been among the top three scorers on his team for the past three years. He is a team player who makes sure to spread the ball around to his teammates and is an encouraging presence for his team. In addition to soccer, he plays basketball for his school. He is a solid student who has been nominated to be an ambassador because of his grades and leadership. In his community, Hunter volunteers to serves Thanksgiving and Christmas lunches to the needy, and he acts as an alter server at his church. He also helped rescue three dogs, which his family now cares for as pets.  

MARCH 2014

Cassidy from Norfolk, Va.
Cassidy is a straight-A student with a great passion for soccer. She chooses to give up Christmas and birthday presents to instead participate in soccer training. Last year, she donated all of her birthday money to her soccer club to help sponsor another child and give them the gift of soccer. Cassidy also volunteers to help train children in the community to help them learn the basic skills and gain a love of soccer. On the field, she scored 49 goals to go with nine assists and has recently began participating in the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program. In school, Cassidy has perfect attendance and has received multiple academic awards.

Biren from Baltimore, Md.
Biren loves soccer, and his passion shows on the field during his play. He shows great teamwork and sportsmanship, constantly praising and supporting his teammates. He even willingly wrote a letter of recommendation for his teammate and friend for college. He has logged more than 195 hours of community service, and he helps translate for younger players as part of the Sierra Club and Refugee Youth Project. He has success in the classroom while taking advanced placement classes and is the co-founder of “Experiment Club.” The biggest obstacle in itself is the same of all of our players in Soccer Without Borders (SWB). As a refugee from Nepal, Biren has faced several obstacles along the way but has proven to be a strong student-athlete.

FEBRUARY 2014

Mikayla from Rocklin, Calif.
Mikayla plays on a competitive soccer team and hopes to play the game her whole life. Whether it is at training, practice, games or in her backyard, she kicks a soccer ball around every day. In September, she took three free kicks in one game and scored on each one. Mikayla wants to stay well-rounded, and she maintains a 4.0 GPA in school. She runs on her middle school cross country team and has been a Girl Scout since she was in Kindergarten — where she enjoys working on charitable projects with her troop. One of her goals is to one day be an inspiration to younger girls who want to play the game of soccer.

Cooper from Whitsett, N.C.
Cooper has been playing club soccer for six years and recently joined Greensboro United. At his new club, his positive attitude from the goalkeeper position has helped lead his team to an 18-2 record, with eight shutouts along the way. In the classroom, Cooper had a difficult time in elementary school but has put in extra work and time to improve his schoolwork. His determination paid off, as he was named to the National Junior Honor Society last May. Cooper also volunteers with his local US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer program, which allows him to work with special needs athletes to help them achieve their soccer goals.

JANUARY 2014

Ceirra from New Port Richey, Fla.
During a busy high school senior year, Ceirra has been able to successfully balance several activities on and off the soccer field. She plays club and high school soccer, while also volunteering for local youth soccer camps. Ceirra also does other volunteer work and has logged more than 100 hours with those programs. Despite her busy schedule, she maintains a 3.5 GPA while taking advanced placement courses and working 25 hours each week. She is captain of her high school team and president of a school club. Ceirra is a dedicated, hard-working person, who does not let obstacles get in her way.

Balaam from Wingate, N.C.
Despite the difficult circumstances of having his mother in the hospital for much of the fall season, Balaam always gave 100 percent and didn’t miss a game. On the field, he is a team leader who will play any position to help his team succeed. He was also able to make the high school honor roll while taking an advanced course load. When his mother was able to attend his final two club games, Balaam scored in each of them. Both times, he ran across the field to celebrate the goals with his mother. Balaam continues to display the positive qualities that can be acquired through playing youth sports. 

2013

DECEMBER 2013

Anna from Stafford Springs, Conn.
Anna is talented soccer player who strives hard to improve her game every day. She has balanced her time playing with both club and school teams while she transitioned to her first year of middle school. Off of the field, Anna has used her free time to continue raising money for the charity she created two years ago called "Warming Families Makes Cents." Anna raises money to help heat the homes of families who cannot afford to do so on their own. During the last two years, she has raised about $5,000 and helped keep more than 10 families warm in her community. Whether it’s on the soccer field or off of it, Anna has given her full effort to make an impact.

Nolan from Little Egg Harbor, N.J.
Nolan has been overcoming obstacles from the day he was born. He was part of a set of fraternal triplets, along with a brother and sister, which were born at 32 weeks with collapsed lungs and were told they would be behind their peers. Though he is small in size compared to other boys on the soccer field, that does not deter Nolan as he continues to improve. He joined his school’s running club and was the first person in his age group to finish a 5K in support of a local church. Nolan is also an active member of student council, and he participated in his town’s Trunk or Treat event to support the Hurricane Sandy victims that were still without somewhere to call home. Nolan has shown he can be a leader in the community, in addition the game of soccer.

NOVEMBER 2013

Maya from Rochester, Minn.
On the soccer field, Maya always tries her best to make an impact in the game and is always a positive role model as a teammate. She plays soccer because she loves the game and being part of a team, and it shows through her huge smile. Off the field, Maya continues to be a positive role model for those around her by giving back. In April, Maya's grandma was diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer. Maya, who loves to play four-square, decided to plan a four-square tournament in order to raise money for her grandma. On Aug. 23, the tournament took place and more than 65 people were in attendance to support the fundraiser. In the end, Maya's tournament raised more than $1,000 for her grandma.

Eddie from Bel Air, Md.
Eddie began playing soccer at age 5 and has now been playing travel soccer for four years. He displays speed and good ball skills, as well as a solid knowledge of the game and the ability to work well with his club team. He also plays on the US Youth Soccer ODP Maryland state team and has competed in several regional ODP tournaments. Eddie has overcome many obstacles, including five surgeries for a cleft lip and palate that he was born with. He had to overcome some self-esteem issues caused by the scars, and soccer helped give him confidence. Eddie has done well to put it behind him and continues to get straight As in school while being a kind and funny person who is looked up to by his friends and coaches.

OCTOBER 2013

Lillie from Seymour, Ind.
Though just 9 years old, Lillie has a great passion for soccer. She is a talented forward who recently moved up to U-11 from U-9. She has participated in many soccer camps and clinics and was given "The Coaches Award" at Indiana University soccer camp. Lillie has an incredible heart on and off the field. She once was awarded player of the game by an opposing team and chose to give her player patch to another teammate that she felt deserved it more. When her school was raising money for a family fighting cancer through a fundraiser called "Penny Wars," she insisted to donate all of her money in her piggy bank. Lillie is a straight A student and is also active in her church through youth group and choir. She is an active 4H member that loves learning about the responsibilities of caring for animals.

Matthew from Grayson, Ga.
Matthew is a goalkeeper who plays the game with a big heart and determination. He recently made it through preliminary US Youth Soccer ODP tryouts and is preparing for state ODP tryouts. He’s been able to erase doubts of his ability due to a shorter stature. In school, Matthew is consistently on the honor roll, and he doesn’t let mild Tourette Syndrome or ADD stand in his way from being a positive leader. Each October, Matthew dresses in pink from head to toe, and he collects names of women impacted by breast cancer and dedicates each game to them. He also dedicates games to others impacted by cancer to help spread awareness. He is a determined person with good technical skills, and he’s always working to get better.

SEPTEMBER 2013

Zoe from Naperville, Ill.
Zoe recently scored both goals in Team Chicago Academy-Botafogo’s 2-1 win over defending champions VSA Heat in the Under-18 final at the 2013 US Youth Soccer National Championships. Her three total goals were tied for most in the age group, despite missing nearly two full games after arriving late from taking mandatory summer classes at the University of Kentucky — where she’ll start her freshman season this fall. Zoe was also the top scorer in the US Youth Soccer National League among U-18 Girls, as she recorded eight goals to help her side finish 7-0-0 — just the seventh perfect record in league history. She also scored both goals in her high school state championship game to give her school its second straight state title.

Steven from St. Martinville, La.
Steven is a striker who possesses speed and size, as well as a passion for the game of soccer. His determination to improve helped him score 37 goals last season, and he also works hard to get his teammates involved in every aspect of the game. Steven is active off the field in school and his church. He’s been an Altar Server since he was 8, and he’s also recorded straight A’s in every grade level so far and achieved the highest overall average on the SATs. He combined his academic and athletic endeavors to write a poem about soccer that placed second in the Louisiana Youth Author’s Writing Contest and was later published in the 2011 Louisiana Young Author’s Directory.  

AUGUST 2013

Peyton from McKinney, Texas
Peyton exhibits a high level of determination, work ethic and morals that make her a well-rounded player on the field. She is the starting goalkeeper for her club team, and she works trains with her teammates, as well as with a goalkeeping trainer. She is a team leader and was told by a coach that she was the most coachable player at a regional camp. She works hard to have success as a keeper despite being undersized for the position and having to overcome a few injuries. Off the field, Peyton maintains straight-A’s, takes advanced placement courses and is in the National Junior Honor Society. Whether it’s soccer, academics or other pursuits, Peyton shows a commitment to excellence in whatever she does.

Josiah from Argos, Ind.
Josiah is a talented defender, who possesses several great attributes for a soccer player. He is fast, physical and shows good skill, and his coaches have said his ability to stop opposing forwards is "as good as it gets." He is very passionate about the game of soccer and does whatever it takes to help the team. While his abilities on the field are excellent, his efforts off the field are just as impressive. He is very active in his church youth group and has done several service activities, such as mission trips, helping the elderly and visiting nursing homes. He also helped with a car wash to raise money for a classmate involved in a car crash. Academically, Josiah is an honor student and very focused on doing his best in the classroom.

JULY 2013

Emma from Coralville, Iowa
Emma completed her junior high school years as a Presidential Scholar and achieved a 4.0 grade point average. For her success in the classroom, she was selected to represent her school at the prestigious Belin-Blank Institute at the University of Iowa. Emma’s hard work and leadership can also be seen in her soccer pursuits. On the field, Emma has helped her club team to a pair of runner-up finishes in the Iowa State Cup and a trio of indoor state championships. She has also been a member of the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program Iowa state team since its inception. After seeing Emma play, Breidablik FC, a very successful women’s club from Kópavogur, Iceland, invited her to train with the squad.

Kevin from Rockland, Mass.
Kevin has played soccer since he was 5 and was the varsity goalkeeper for his high school team all four years. His athletic involvement comes in addition to his hard work in school, where he’s also a lead member of the band. Kevin graduated third in his class and earned the Male Student/Athlete award from his school, as well as the South Shore League Scholar-Athlete award. He’s been a leader in several academic groups, a member of the National Honor Society and has given much of his time to volunteer with town soccer programs. He mentored younger players and assisted in the "Train the Coaches" sessions, which aim to improve the skills and knowledge of the town’s coaches and parents.

JUNE 2013

Ashton from Gilbert, Ariz.
Despite two recent hospitalizations, Ashton helped lead her team to the championship game in two consecutive tournaments. She continues to work on developing her game as a goalkeeper and is a vocal leader who displays good sportsmanship. Teachers say similar things about Ashton’s character in the classroom, calling her a role model for her peers. She is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and carried a 3.9 GPA in all gifted classes. She also participates in regular community service and he been recognized for assistance to the East Valley Child Crisis Center. Ashton offers free babysitting to families in the community with special needs children, and she ran on a Relay For Life team in May to raise money for cancer patients. Her passion for the game of soccer and for her community is both respectable and admired by those around her.

Kyle from Indian Trail, N.C.
Kyle strives for excellence in everything he does, whether it’s in soccer or in school. He has been a starter for Sun Valley High School’s varsity soccer team the past two years, and is a solid defender and leader for his school, as well as his WCWAA club team. He is determined off the field and has worked hard to earn a 3.8 GPA while taking mostly honors classes. He has also donated time to raise money for the local Red Cross by volunteering to help with the American Red Cross Fashion Passion Show. Kyle has worked on two playground builds for local schools with his father and volunteered as a coach and mentor for some of his club’s younger players during a skills night to help them improve their game.

MAY 2013

Anna Maria from Middletown, Del.
Anna Maria is a goalkeeper who plays in a competitive Under-11 league. On the field, she is a constant voice of positive leadership and encouragement for her team. Anna Maria has not only been complimented as a skilled goalkeeper from opponents, but she’s also been acknowledged by others for her leadership and sportsmanship by opposing coaches and parents. Anna Maria is just as hard of a worker off the field, as she is an honor roll student and active volunteer. This past holiday season, she raised money and collected toys to produce more than 100 Jared Boxes for children who were hospitalized with cancer during the holidays, and she placed an encouraging phrase on every box with decoration. She is already preparing for the 2013 holiday season and hopes to have 200 boxes filled with toys for children of all ages and each gender.

Cameron from Mebane, N.C.
Cameron is a player with a great attitude and big heart. He was selected for the US Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program tournament pool for North Carolina in 2012 and is in the pool once again in 2013. He’s the leader of his club team and also a strong runner, as he finished ninth overall in his first 5K race a year ago. Cameron is a determined student, and he realizes the importance of education and hard work. Though he’s in sixth grade, he already has his sights set on college and realizes the importance of a scholarship, whether it’s earned on the field or in the classroom. Because of that fact, Cameron maintains a strong work ethic in both areas, while remaining a thoughtful and considerate teammate and classmate to his peers.

APRIL 2013

Madison from Melrose, Fla.
Madison is an exceptional athlete, student and member of her community. She finished her high school season, her fifth year playing varsity, as the top scorer in all of North Florida. For both her high school team and club, Clay County SC, Madison provides an example for her teammates with her commitment, effort, sportsmanship and team-first way she plays the game and practices with. She is currently a full-time dual-enrolled student maintaining a 4.4 GPA while still participating in Student Council, National Honor Society and Key Club. During the summer, Madison volunteers in teaching Vacation Bible School, during which she discovered her passion which is working with children. Madison has always wanted to become a physician and coupling that with working with children, her plan is to attend college and med school to become a pediatric oncologist.

Zachary from Miami, Fla.
Zachary is a sophomore at Coral Reef Senior High School and is enrolled in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. He is taking several AP and IB classes and has managed to keep a GPA above 3.8 while balancing demanding schoolwork with soccer. On the field, Zachary plays as a defender and defensive midfielder. He plays for Pinecrest Premier, which participated in the 2012-2013 US Youth Soccer National League season, in addition to several other leagues. Zachary also plays defense for his high school team, which he helped to a district championship. In addition to school and soccer, he finds time to volunteer at his church's youth group for at least 4-6 hours per week. Whether it’s school, soccer or volunteering, Zachary maintains a good work ethic through whatever demands he meets.

MARCH 2013

Grace from Boise, Idaho
Grace is a standout defender for Boise High, FC Nova, Idaho US Youth Soccer ODP and US Youth Soccer ODP Region IV, and she recently earned an invitation to the U.S. Under-17 Women’s National Team Camp. She has played nearly every position on the field, including goalkeeper when her team’s regular keeper sustained an injury just a few weeks before they headed to the Far West Regionals. Grace works just as hard off the field as she does on it, as she pays her soccer fees $10 at a time using money she earns refereeing and babysitting. She volunteers at various places, helps as a TOPSoccer Buddy and works hard in the classroom. Grace is always positive around her teammates, no matter the situation, and she can communicate and relate with just about anyone she comes across.

Isaiah from Rock Hill, S.C.
Though only 11 years old, Isaiah has already made an impact on and off the soccer field. As a player, he was the leading scorer in the Under-9 Sandlapper League when he was just 6. He traveled to England last spring with Manchester City’s Academy program and has been asked to return to England and train with Everton. He’s also received the Discoveries Soccer Club Male Player of the Year award. Isaiah has done his part to promote the game and good citizenship, as well. He organized "The Sylvia Cup" soccer tournament at his school to promote friendship during recess and is an ‘A’ student when in the classroom. He’s also participated in The National Kidney Foundation Walk, Alzheimer’s Walk and has assisted in Operation Christmas Child for several years.

 
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