Emily Mead '23 Recruiting Profile

My journey has been a bit different  than most. I didn't start in  goal by choice, it was an option to continue playing with my team in  youth sports because my body was failing me and running the field was  not possible. I have psoriatic arthritis and while I don't generally  like people to let it define me, if I'm being honest it has in fact  shaped me into the Goalkeeper I am today, a position I have gone from  settling for to owning and loving. We found whatever resources we could  to help learn the position (as much as an 11 year old with restrictions  could) and once a coach dubs you a keeper, the position is yours! As we  gradually found ways to keep my body healthy I started to gain  confidence in the position and tried out for club soccer where I have  played for the last 7 years for Coach Rich Powell. I am also the varsity  goalkeeper for my high school, Monument Mountain Regional High School  where I will continue to play next year, my senior year.

COVID  has changed the landscape of what I thought my high school soccer  career would look like, but it's also been an opportunity to reflect and  learn to roll with whatever comes and embrace the time on the field  with everything you have because it's not guaranteed. I would love  nothing more than to continue playing at the collegiate level. 

As crazy  as it sounds, what I would embrace the most is goalkeeper training. Living in rural Massachusetts our resources in regards to soccer training are lacking. We don't have the ability to train year round and my position as goalkeeper generally receives the least attention during practice. I  believe I have a lot of untapped growth, a lot of potential yet to reach. To train on a higher level, for that position specifically, would be amazing! Because I am acutely aware of the lack of resources available, I currently help train new and aspiring  keepers at the youth level U8-U14 weekly before my own practices. 

I  love all that the game of soccer has to offer but being a part of a  team is something I've come to realize is unmatched. I have been a part  of a team for as long as I can remember. Through good and bad, my  teammates have taught me so much. While I'm quite independent, being a  part of a team as I continue my steps would be something I would  embrace.  

My goal is to pursue a degree  in Exercise Science. Perhaps a career in athletic training, physical  therapy or sports medicine.  I spent many years quite ill, when medicine  failed we had to explore other options including functional therapy,  alternative medicine and diet. My passion would be to help athletes  reach their potential and teach them ways to achieve that through  movement  and lifestyle. I have learned through my own experience that treating  the root of the issue and not just the symptoms can be life changing. I  believe pursuing a degree in that field can help impact future  generations both at need and preventative. I am very passionate about  this as I know first hand how it has forever changed the trajectory of  my path.

Thank you for taking the time to read my profile.