Maya Celaj '20 Recruiting Profile

Thank you for your interest and taking the time to review my profile.  As a sophomore looking forward 3 years, I plan on attending a strong academic institute that also supports a Division I Women’s soccer program.  While college seems a while away, I want to ensure that I have not only put in the effort in planning for the future, but that I also take advantage of all the opportunities offered.  While I realize that the level of competition in both academia and soccer is increasingly fierce, I do consider myself to be a top contender.  In both areas, I have a strong work ethic where I strive for excellence and continue to push myself to surpass goals I’ve set.  Coaches and Teachers have commended me on my drive, efforts, and “coachability”.  On and off the field, I am an absolute team player and respectful citizen of the community.  I am currently playing on the Sky Blue Development Academy Team-NYSC as an outside back defender.  My role within the organization has me rotating between the U 16/17 (my age group) and U 18/19 teams.  When I played for my High School soccer team, I was the center back which put me in the role of directing the movement of the entire defensive line.  It was difficult to be an 8^th grader and be put in a position to tell a senior member where to go and what to do.  At first I was timid, but through time and gained trust, I often found the senior players coming to me for guidance.  What makes me different from other recruits is that I am versatile.  I know the game of soccer and have a good grasp of what is asked of me, and that translates onto the field.  My comfort zone is to play in a defensive role, but I also accept the challenge of taking corner kicks, throw-ins, penalty kicks and even playing on offense mid-game. I not only have a passion for the sport, but I also invest in keeping my body fit and conditioned throughout the year.  During the off season, I played basketball for my HS Varsity team, because it challenged and strengthened different muscles and helped to maintain stamina and speed. Since the DA does not allow HS sport participation, I have opted to train all year with the academy to continue work on weaknesses and further develop my strengths. I share some highlights in my profile along with my current grades and awards for your consideration, and look forward to meeting with you in the future.