Julia Olosky '22 Recruiting Profile

Growing up overseas was one of the largest things that sparked my love for soccer. Not only was playing soccer at a very young age a great way to meet new people, as we moved every 3 years, but it also became a constant throughout all the change (something that I grew to love). Having exposure to over 4 different types of playing styles based on countries and schools has allowed for me to become a flexible and versatile player. Living in Shanghai, China, I was playing on a mostly boys team, which I believe gave me the strength and aggressiveness that gives me an advantage even today. In Singapore, I was both on a competitive older girls team, where I began to learn the skills of being an offensive player. With the boys team, my defensive skills were further strengthened. In Düsseldorf, Germany, I played as an all around comfortable player for the girls team, but playing for the U15 boys team was one of the most challenging and out of my comfort zone things that I have ever done. Playing with the boys for 2 years pushed my confidence, increased my speed of play and forced me to grow a tougher skin. 

Now in California, I play primarily on the wing, a position where I can use both my defensive and offensive skills. Playing soccer is not only something that I am very passionate about, but it also is a way for me to settle down and focus. I also simply love playing soccer, especially the competitive aspects of it. Playing soccer in college is important to me because I value the synergy I’ve found between academics and soccer, and the balance it brings to my life is very important to me.