Catherine Thurston '23 Recruiting Profile

I learned at a young age how to grow in adversity and change.  From 3 years old until I was 5 years old, I lived in an orphanage in Russia.  I came to the US in December 2009.  My whole world turned upside down.  I could not speak the language, the food was different, and I did not know anyone.  With the support of my parents and brother, I started to learn how to speak English and adapt to my new life.  

I started playing soccer in the Fall of 2010.  I found a lot of enjoyment in soccer.  Since I did not always understand what people were saying, I had to rely on body language.  I learned to read my opponents by their actions and body movement.  I used my disadvantage of not knowing English profiently to my advantage.  I could focus on the ball and the players without worrying about the noise around me.

Change is always hard.  However, we do not grow unless we are willing to get uncomfortable and let the change happen.  Life is not always easy but being able to stay focused and pay attention to the goal has taught me how to deal with tough situations.  If you want a player who knows times can be tough but knows to stay focused, put me in the pitch.