Olivia Waterman '21 Recruiting Profile

I'm the varsity goalkeeper for Lake Wales High school, and I've been proudly supporting my team towards two seats in Districts since our team was founded during my freshman year. I’ve fallen in love with this sport in the past three years, and it has had an impact on who I am today. About two years ago, my coach asked me to temporarily fill the goalkeeper spot on our Varsity team because I had extensive experience as a soccer goalie. I accepted the position and soon after realized that I loved the challenge, drive, and focus that came with it and was then moved into it permanently.

Academics are definitely my main focus and I am striving to pursue a fulfilling and successful college education before anything else, however, lacrosse is a passion of mine and I aspire to continue playing throughout college. I am a strong player both on the field and off of it, academically and athletically. My ideal college experience is at a school that can provide me with a strong, impressive academic schedule and allowing me the opportunity to play the sport I love on a competitive level. On a personal level, I work to achieve my best in everything and I'm not a quitter. I am a strong team player as well, and I strongly believe in the 'family' concept of a team. 

My strengths on the field are within the defensive positions. I played defense in soccer for five years on a travel team before I played defense as a starter in lacrosse during my freshman year; I can still play it well today, but my experience and passion are in the goal. As a goalie, I believe I am perfectly capable of blocking any shot if I continue to work hard and keep a positive, upbeat mindset. I am good at following the ball and I can interfere a shot well, always making sure to put my entire body, along with my stick, in front of the shot. I know the fundamentals of goal extremely well (stepping towards the ball, fundamental corners, fast reaction time, etc.) which not only makes me very teachable, but ensures I can be trusted to maintain my position well in the unpredictable game situation. Most of all, I have a strong, determined mindset. I will do whatever it takes to get better and be a supporting member of my team.