Shira Rand '27 Recruiting Profile

Thank you in advance for reviewing my profile.  My name is Shira Rand and I will be a class of 2027 graduate from Rye High School, in Rye, NY.  I have a strong desire to play soccer at a highly competitive, and academically rigorous, college or university, so that I can continue to challenge myself both on and off the pitch.  I currently play up for New York Soccer Club on the Girls Academy 2008 team (however my birth year is 2009), as well as on the Rye High School varsity squad, where we won the Class A New York State soccer championship during my freshman year, 2023.  In addition, I am a very committed student and strive to achieve the highest academic standards, whether that means taking honors classes or enrolling in advance placement courses.  

When I think about what enables me to succeed in both athletics and academics, I believe it is my desire to always challenge myself to improve, but also my ability to prioritize what matters most to me, combined with strong habits that are conducive to success, such as time management.  Since I practice soccer almost everyday throughout the year, and also given my desire to excel in academics, I must be diligent about finding sufficient time to complete my studies in a timely and effective manner.  Put simply, I don't waste a lot of time engaging in overly frivolous pursuits or sitting idling while doing nothing.  Of course, I do make time for my family (I have a younger brother and a younger sister, both of whom are also quite active) and love spending time with my friends, whom I value a great deal.  I also find time for other hobbies I enjoy, such as reading, skiing, playing tennis and cooking, but I always make sure that I first tend to my priorities before moving on to the next activity.

I'm confident that these traits are what lead my soccer coaches to believe I am eminently coachable and always eager to learn more and to focus on getting better, in every respect.  Whether it is improving my technical skills, sharpening my "soccer IQ," or supporting my teammates, my coaches know that I will always focus equally on self-improvement, but also on the best interests of my team, which is why I've been named a team captain of my New York Soccer Club squad (even though I'm younger than my teammates).  Indeed, of all my characteristics, I am most proud of my ability to cultivate and maintain strong relationships with those whom I love and respect, and this flows through every aspect of my life.  

Thank you and I look forward to connecting with you soon.  Shira