Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

At what age did you start playing your main sport?

Around six years old.

Who introduced you to the sport?

Honestly I just told my parents at six years old that I wanted to play soccer. Mostly because I didn’t want to play softball. It was too much waiting and not enough running.

Has this always been your favorite sport?

Yes, always. I started playing softball for a year but once I tried soccer I never went back. Also, in middle school, freshman and sophomore year I played volleyball but it never was my favorite.

What aspects of your sport do you value the most?

I value that soccer is a lot about effort as well as just talent. I love that you’re always moving and always working. I also value the team connection.

In your opinion, what is the best part about being on a team?

You have a pre-built support system and family that share your interests. When you’re on a team, you’re not competing against each other but competing with each other. When you win, they win. It makes everyone work harder and everyone gets to celebrate together.

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?

Freshman year I had two sports to juggle as well as academics, so it was a challenge, especially while I was navigating the first year of high school and high school sports. Senior year was challenging in different ways since I was only doing one sport but I was in much harder classes with AP tests (college class testing) during our soccer season. Overall, I think balancing academics and athletics got easier freshman year to senior year because I became more responsible and had an understanding of how to balance everything.

What is the most challenging aspect of your sport that most people don’t realize?

Probably the most challenging aspect of soccer is having to think and make decisions three steps ahead while you’re exhausted and the situation is constantly changing.

How do you deal with the pressure of a big game?

I talk to my teammates since we all share the pressure. I also talk to my family who always encourages and reassures me.

If you could instantly master any other sport, which would you choose and why?

I would like to master volleyball. I loved playing it throughout middle school and early highschool. I just never was an amazing player.

Outside of sports, how do you enjoy spending your free time?

I like to work out, play pickleball, have bonfires with my friends and take day trips to Door County.

What is the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?

I spent a week in Italy recently (this July), so I got to experience a new country and a new continent.

What is one thing you’ve always wanted to try, but have never gotten the chance to yet?

I want to swim under a waterfall.

What is an obstacle you have had to overcome during your athletic career?

I think this was a big part of my high school and soccer journey. I tore my ACL playing volleyball my sophomore year. I couldn’t play my sophomore season of soccer and I stopped playing volleyball altogether. I went through about a year of recovery, which was hard, but I think I came back both mentally and physically stronger.

What is one song in your playlist that gets you pumped up before a game?

“All of the Lights” by Kanye West because it used to be the first song that played on the speakers before every game my freshman year.

Favorite game day beverage?

For game days I just like water because it makes me feel and play the best.

What is something you’re excited to experience after high school (sports or in general)?

I’m excited to try out for the University of Minnesota club soccer team and hopefully find another family of teammates. I’m also excited to take classes related to my major to see what the rest of my life is going to look like.

Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)

I’m going to the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, majoring in architecture. I plan to do my bachelor’s degree, my master’s degree and then become a licensed architect.