Addison Garver '25 Recruiting Profile

I’m Addison Garver and I'm a 2025 graduate from Volcano Vista High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I started playing soccer at three-and-half years old. As soon as I learned that kicking the ball into the goal was the objective, my parents say I became the most focused little player on the field. I went on to play seven years of co-ed recreation league soccer. I had a great coach during those seven years, a former college level player, and he really helped me develop great foot work and other skills. Those seven years of co-ed soccer playing against boys bigger than me also helped me lose any fear on the field.

At 11 years old, I made my middle school team because the coach recognized my assertive playing style and courage despite my smaller size. After that first middle school league season, I started playing club soccer with the Albuquerque United Football Club (AUFC) Thorns. Since 2019, I have also participated in various Olympic Development Program (ODP) activities, including being selected for the 2022, 2023, and 2024 state teams. ODP regional coaches also selected me to participate in the 2023 and 2024 West Region ID camps. In 2021, as a high school freshman, I made the junior varsity team as a starting midfielder.  Following the 2021 regular season, the head coach invited me to join the varsity team for the state championship series. In 2022, I continued to play on the varsity team. Also in 2022, I decided to try out for my high school wrestling team. As a winter sport I hoped wrestling would keep my endurance up and build leg, upper body, and core strength while I wasn't playing much soccer. Wrestling is hard work for sure, but I am really liking it. I'll definitely be a stronger soccer player as a result.

I have been in the gifted program since fourth grade. It’s my hope that my academic excellence in elementary and middle school will continue into high school and beyond. I have also been in 4-H for many years. In 4-H, I have participated in a variety of activities, including STEM projects, archery, photography, home economics, and animal programs. I love working with animals! I have won many showmanship awards for goats, chickens, steers, and other animals. Training a 1,300 lbs. steer for the 4-H county fair is hard work. But it is also a great confidence builder that helps other parts of my life, including playing soccer.

In 4-H, I have also put my natural leadership abilities to work in positions such as vice-president and president in my local chapter. Serving in these positions has helped develop my leadership skills even more. I have also served as a volunteer at my church where I've helped with the kid classes, community service projects, and supported many different special events.

In addition to working with livestock and small animals in 4-H, I am also an avid youth hunter. Hunting and 4-H have helped me appreciate the environment, agriculture, and conservation. In college, it is my hope to study something like animal science, zoology, biology, marine biology, agriculture, agricultural engineering, wildlife/rangeland management, or forestry. Oh yes, and play soccer!