Lauren Torhorst '17 Recruiting Profile

Alongside my family, the game of soccer has helped shape me into a young well-rounded woman. Like most aspiring college athletes, my "soccer career" started early at about the age of 5 with Mom and Dad as my coaches. Along the way, I learned that if you don't love it, it's not worth doing.  I also learned to believe in myself, my dreams, and my goals. Now as a club team player, I have found  a relationship that challenges me and keeps me disciplined. The culmination of all my time and effort..my true passion..is to participate as a team member on a collegiate women's soccer team.
I strongly believe in the philosophy "there is no I in team." Outside of athletics, I have many unique interests and work on making myself a well-rounded citizen. But when I hit the field, it's about the team. Making the great pass that leads to a goal for a team member or playing strong defense on the opponent's best player, are as much a thrill as scoring the winning goal. I have been told by various athletic coaches and teachers that they would love a team or class full of "Laurens." I have learned to keep a positive attitude not just on the field, but in school as well. I have been known to swap my cleats and shin guards for choral concert heels and gown, and study to and from practice in the car. In my upcoming sophomore year, I have taken courses that are going to be a challenge, but I know anything is possible when you stay organized and set your mind to it. School work always comes first, but athletics also helps keep my focus. I currently keep a steady 3.66/4.0 GPA.
I am a three sport athlete. I compete on the girls varsity golf team in the fall during my formal club season. I also play basketball on the junior varsity/varsity team during winter season, while training still continues for club soccer. This spring, I plan on foregoing my high school season to play club soccer year round.  Knowing I don't get much of a break from either the golf course, basketball court, or soccer field, being responsible is crucial to success. In season, I work even harder to keep good grades so that I have the ability to stay on the team, and to show my commitment to being a successful student athlete. As a soccer player, I would say my strengths are position versatility, strong commitment to team play, and physical toughness. My versatility extends beyond the soccer field. I pride myself in being a well-rounded and knowledgeable team member. I can control the ball and serve it with both my left and right foot, as well. Because of these attributes, I am able to be placed at both the forward and outside back position. In the past and at a few camps, I have also played outside/center midfielder. 
For about three years now, I have had the opportunity  to play for my club team, SC Waukesha. We have had a ton of success these past few seasons. We play in the U16, Premier 1, Midwest Regional League (MRL). This past June, we were able to compete at the 2014 Midwest Regional Championships in Beavercreek, Ohio, after winning our second straight Wisconsin State Cup Championships. We were able to make it to the finals, but ended up losing on a last minute goal.  Losing in the finals has only motivated me to train and practice even harder than before.