Category Player Spotlight

At Nebraska Soccer Talk, we love covering everything soccer related. For the most part, that means covering games and providing analysis/opinions. However, our overall mission and purpose is far reaching and ambitious. Our goal is to bring the soccer community closer together through collaboration and communication.  There are countless people that deserve recognition for their efforts as a player, official, or coach. Throughout the year, we will be highlighting these individuals through our Get To Know Me articles.

This will be a series made up of three different components. All of which is meant to bring attention to the soccer community.

1. Get To Know Me (Coach Edition) – These individuals are responsible for building their programs, growing the game of soccer, and mentoring the next generation. We look forward to learning about their lives and philosophies.
2. Get To Know Me (Player Edition) – This article series will focus on high school juniors and seniors that have demonstrated themselves to be quality players and people. With these features, our community will learn about some of the most impressive players in the state.
3. Future of the Game – This article series will focus on the freshmen and sophomore classes. These are players that we will be covering for years to come.

Thank you to every individual that provided information for this idea. We appreciate your thoughtful and timely responses.

Cole Hoppe

Math; I’ve always been pretty good at it and enjoy problem solving

I’m continuing my academic and athletic career at William Jewell College

Virgil Van Dijk; He is arguably the best defender in the world so he is a great player to analyze and learn.

Don’t take any training session for granted. Being disciplined enough to do the little things everyday will make a big difference later. Take care of your body outside of training with your recovery, it is very important.

Many people have helped me in becoming the player I am today and I am blessed to have so many supportive people in my life. My club team and coach Chris Dunford really pushed me to becoming a better player though. I’m very thankful to be apart of that team.

Chace Hutchison

At Nebraska Soccer Talk, we love covering everything soccer related. For the most part, that means covering games and providing analysis/opinions. However, our overall mission and purpose is far reaching and ambitious. Our goal is to bring the soccer community closer together through collaboration and communication.  There are countless people that deserve recognition for their efforts as a player, official, or coach. Throughout the year, we will be highlighting these individuals through our Get To Know Me articles.

This will be a series made up of three different components. All of which is meant to bring attention to the soccer community.

1. Get To Know Me (Coach Edition) – These individuals are responsible for building their programs, growing the game of soccer, and mentoring the next generation. We look forward to learning about their lives and philosophies.
2. Get To Know Me (Player Edition) – This article series will focus on high school juniors and seniors that have demonstrated themselves to be quality players and people. With these features, our community will learn about some of the most impressive players in the state.
3. Future of the Game – This article series will focus on the freshmen and sophomore classes. These are players that we will be covering for years to come.

Thank you to every individual that provided information for this idea. We appreciate your thoughtful and timely responses.

Alyssa Judkins

Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Barb and Greg Judkins

High School Soccer Team: Burke Girls Varsity Soccer

Position: Center back (left)

Club Team: Sporting Omaha FC 2002/2003  Premier

Grade: 12

What is your favorite subject in school? Why?

Physics. I like the math processes of it, figuring out  how things work, and it helps that I have a really great physics teacher at Burke.

What are your future plans?

I’ll be attending Creighton University  playing soccer there and majoring in a science or math field.

Who’s your favorite soccer player and why?

My favorite current women’s player is Kelly O’Hara. She’s the type of defender that I always wanted  to be, aggressive, competitive, smart, and has the ability to get forward and join the attack. I also just  love watching her play because you see just how competitive she is and how she fights for every  single ball throughout the entire game no matter what.

My favorite current men’s player is Heung-Min Son. He is a forward/midfielder for the English Premier  League team, Tottenham, which happens to be my favorite team in the EPL. Son is so extremely fun to  watch. With his insane speed and his vision of the field, he’s such a pure goal scorer, especially with his  partner forward Harry Kane. I also really appreciate how his reaction when he scores a goal never changes, even after scoring so many in his career. His love for the game is still as strong as ever.

Throughout your high school career, you have undoubtedly learned many lessons and matured as a  player. Based on those lessons and experiences, give three pieces of advice to your freshman self.  

• Trust your instincts: A lot of times, especially as an underclassman, you may think or want to  do something a certain way, but your brain gets in the way saying that you must be wrong,  “you’re just a freshman”. But most of the time you know yourself the best, therefore know  the best way for you to succeed. Trust your gut and be confident that your knowledge of the  game is just as strong as anyone else’s.

• Take everything as a learning experience: High school soccer can be very different from club soccer, and sometimes very intimidating. You are joining a whole new player pool and trying  to make an impact with this new group of people that you barely know. But with every new  experience comes a chance to learn new things. Even if things aren’t going the way you  thought they would, take the chance to learn new things, try a new position, or work on your  technical or tactical skills. Keep getting better, no matter the situation.

• Don’t let others affect your work ethic: This is a lesson I got from a past club coach, Jake  Watson. Going into high school season, I knew that it would be a lot different from club. I  wouldn’t have my teammates to push me and have that external force driving me forward.  So, when you lose one driving force, you need to create another within yourself. You need to  learn to motivate yourself and even if the others around you aren’t working hard, do the extra  sprint, stay focused on your technique, and try to perfect every part of your game.

Who has helped you become the player that you are today? How did they help you? Is there anything  you would like to tell them?

There are 2 coaches who have made me into the player I am today, both of whom have taught me  completely different, but extremely important lessons about the game of soccer. The first, and  possibly the most influential, was one of my first club coaches, Sean McCoy. He was my coach from  the age of 11 to 13. During those years, Sean taught me the grit, the physicality, and the raw mentality  of the game of soccer. He also began the process of building my leadership and confidence on and off  the field. His coaching is what built me from the ground up. The lesson’s he taught me were exactly  what I needed at that age that allowed my love for the game to grow as the years went on. The  second coach who was a huge influence on my game was Alex Mason. Alex taught me the intellectual  side of the game. The importance of watching soccer, my technical ability, and my tactical awareness  were all built from the lessons he taught me as my coach. The combination of the two coach’s abilities  to build every part of my game was so instrumental to my progression as player. But through their  years of coaching they never forgot to teach me how soccer is a sport that requires you to love the  game. Through the good and the bad, they encouraged me to always enjoy playing like it was the last  time I would ever touch a ball. For that and for the immense time they have spent helping me and  training me, I would like to give them a huge thank you. I will always remember the lessons you  taught me and will use them for the rest of my life.

Could you see yourself coaching soccer someday? Is that a path that you are interested? 

Coaching is an interesting thing to me. I do love the tactical side of soccer and teaching or helping  people understand that side of the game has always been one of my favorite parts. But coaching is  still a very daunting task for me to look at. Because I’ve had such great and incredible coaches it  seems almost impossible to step into their shoes and do the same thing they’ve done. It’s like the standard for coaching is so incredibly high that I feel very hesitant to attempt it. But if the chance  were to ever come to me someday, I think my competitive spirit would definitely take over and I would have to give it a go.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment, or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

At Nebraska Soccer Talk, we love covering everything soccer related. For the most part, that means covering games and providing analysis/opinions. However, our overall mission and purpose is far reaching and ambitious. Our goal is to bring the soccer community closer together through collaboration and communication.  There are countless people that deserve recognition for their efforts as a player, official, or coach. Throughout the year, we will be highlighting these individuals through our Get To Know Me articles.

This will be a series made up of three different components. All of which is meant to bring attention to the soccer community.

1. Get To Know Me (Coach Edition) – These individuals are responsible for building their programs, growing the game of soccer, and mentoring the next generation. We look forward to learning about their lives and philosophies.
2. Get To Know Me (Player Edition) – This article series will focus on high school juniors and seniors that have demonstrated themselves to be quality players and people. With these features, our community will learn about some of the most impressive players in the state.
3. Future of the Game – This article series will focus on the freshmen and sophomore classes. These are players that we will be covering for years to come.

Thank you to every individual that provided information for this idea. We appreciate your thoughtful and timely responses.

Riley Wrhel

Parent/Guardian: Janet Wrhel

High School Team: Lincoln Northeast High School Girls Soccer

Position: I typically play center defensive midfielder

Grade: I am a senior

What is your favorite subject in school? Why? 

My favorite subject is science because ever since i was younger I enjoyed all the aspects that went into it and the chemical reactions.

What are your future plans?

I will be continuing my academic and soccer career at Hastings College

Who’s your favorite soccer player and why?

My favorite soccer player is Carli Lloyd. She is a big team player and never gives up no matter what obstacles are thrown at her. Her mentality is what I dream of having.

Throughout your high school career, you have undoubtedly learned many lessons and matured as a player. Based on those lessons and experiences, give three pieces of advice to your freshman self.

When I was a freshman I came into the team very nervous and with little to no confidence in my abilities. I would probably tell freshman me that it’s ok to make mistakes but you have to recover quickly from them and not dwell on the past. I would also probably tell her that it doesn’t matter what other people say about you or your abilities, you know who you are and that’s all that matters. Finally I would tell her to just relax and have fun. It’s only high school.

Who has helped you become the player that you are today? How did they help you? Is there anything you would like to tell them?

The main people that have helped me become who I am are my coaches and my teammates. They are supportive and help whenever I need help but push enough where it makes me want to be better. The main thing I would like to tell them is just Thank you. Thank you for always being there and helping me.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment, or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

At Nebraska Soccer Talk, we love covering everything soccer related. For the most part, that means covering games and providing analysis/opinions. However, our overall mission and purpose is far reaching and ambitious. Our goal is to bring the soccer community closer together through collaboration and communication.  There are countless people that deserve recognition for their efforts as a player, official, or coach. Throughout the season, we will be highlighting these individuals through our Get To Know Me articles.

This will be a series made up of three different components. All of which is meant to bring attention to the soccer community.

1. Get To Know Me (Coach Edition) – These individuals are responsible for building their programs, growing the game of soccer, and mentoring the next generation. We look forward to learning about their lives and philosophies.
2. Get To Know Me (Player Edition) – This article series will focus on high school juniors and seniors that have demonstrated themselves to be quality players and people. With these features, our community will learn about some of the most impressive players in the state.
3. Future of the Game – This article series will focus on the freshmen and sophomore classes. These are players that we will be covering for years to come.

Thank you to every individual that provided information for this idea. We appreciate your thoughtful and timely responses.

Campbell Zimmers

Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Chris and Jenny Zimmers

High School Soccer Team: Millard North Girls Varsity Soccer team

Position: Center or outside forward

Club Team: Sporting Omaha FC ECNL Premier 02/03

Grade: Senior (12th grade)

What is your favorite subject in school? Why? 

Science is my favorite subject, I really enjoy all my science courses and I hope to major in biology next fall. I love learning about the way things work and how everything impacts our world. 

What are your future plans?

Next year, I am attending the University of South Dakota to continue my soccer and academic career. I plan to major in biology and eventually go into nursing. 

Who’s your favorite soccer player and why?

Julie Ertz on the US women’s national team is my favorite soccer player. Her work ethic is really admirable and she always plays 110%. She is such a strong player and leader, her team can always count on her. These are the qualities I strive for, especially this year as a senior I want to be able to be a trusted teammate and leader. 

Throughout your high school career, you have undoubtedly learned many lessons and matured as a player. Based on those lessons and experiences, give three pieces of advice to your freshman self.

Three pieces of advice I would give to my freshman self are: 

1. Don’t stress about goals, you can play an amazing game and not score. 
2. If you make a mistake, move on. You can’t go back and fix it so don’t beat yourself up about it, just go make up for it. 
3. Play every game like it’s your last.

Who has helped you become the player that you are today? How did they help you? Is there anything you would like to tell them?

The person in my life that has helped me become the player I am today is my older sister Regan Zimmers. Having a sister who plays the same sport is something I am thankful for every day. She pushes me and motivates me to do my best and I have looked up to her ever since I was little. She is always down to go on runs with me or go to the fields to get touches. She pushes me to go even when I don’t feel like it. She has an amazing work ethic and constantly wants to be the best at everything she does. I was lucky enough to win a state championship with her and I am forever grateful that I got to experience that with her by my side. She is an amazing player and an even better person. I can always turn to her for advice about college soccer or just life in general. I can’t wait to play against her for the next 3 years and start our sibling rivalry. Without her, I would not be the player I am today.

Could you see yourself coaching soccer someday? Is that a path that you are interested in following? If so, why?

I could definitely see myself coaching someday. A couple of years ago my club offered a coaching class, so I currently have my grassroots license already. I want to hopefully coach my kids someday and continue to keep the sport in my life. However, I think coaching little league soccer is most likely as far as I would go with it. 

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment, or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

At Nebraska Soccer Talk, we love covering everything soccer related. For the most part, that means covering games and providing analysis/opinions. However, our overall mission and purpose is far reaching and ambitious. Our goal is to bring the soccer community closer together through collaboration and communication.  There are countless people that deserve recognition for their efforts as a player, official, or coach. Throughout the season, we will be highlighting these individuals through our Get To Know Me articles.

This will be a series made up of three different components. All of which are meant to bring attention to the soccer community.

1. Get To Know Me (Coach Edition) – These individuals are responsible for building their programs, growing the game of soccer, and mentoring the next generation. We look forward to learning about their lives and philosophies.
2. Get To Know Me (Player Edition) – This article series will focus on high school juniors and seniors that have demonstrated themselves to be quality players and people. With these features, our community will learn about some of the most impressive players in the state.
3. Future of the Game – This article series will focus on the freshmen and sophomore classes. These are players that we will be covering for years to come.

Thank you to every individual that provided information for this idea. We appreciate your thoughtful and timely responses.

 KIMMEE (KIMBERLEE) DAVENPORT

Parent(s)/Guardian(s): CHARLES & LORI DAVENPORT

High School Soccer Team: BELLEVUE WEST SR HIGH SCHOOL-GIRLS TEAM

Position: RIGHT/LEFT-CENTER BACK

Club Team: SPORTING OMAHA FC 04 PRIEMER

Grade: JUNIOR

What is your favorite subject in school? 

BIOLOGY, THE BODY HAS ALWAYS MADE THE MOST SENSE TO ME.

What are your future plans?

I WANT TO MAJOR IN NURSING. I AM NOT OPPOSED TO PLAYING SOCCER IN  COLLEGE I WOULD LOVE TOO, BUT IT DOES NOT MAKE IT OR BREAK IT FOR ME.

Who’s your favorite soccer player and why? 

BECKY SAUERBRAUNN, ONE OF MY COACHES SAID I HAD THE SAME PLAYING  STYLE AS HER AND SHE WAS MY FAVORITE EVER SINCE.

Throughout your high school career, you have undoubtedly learned many lessons  and matured as a player. Based on those lessons and experiences, give three pieces of advice to your freshman self. 

CHANGE IS GOOD

EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON

DON’T TAKE EVERYTHING TO HEART

 Who has helped you become the player that you are today? How did they help you?  Is there anything you would like to tell them? 

MY FIRST SELECT COACH MITCH KAVANAGH. HE SHAPED ME INTO THE  AGGRESSIVE LEADER OF A PLAYER I AM TODAY. I WOULD LIKE TO THANK HIM  FOR ALWAYS BELIEVING IN ME AND PUSHING ME TO DO MY BEST.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

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At Nebraska Soccer Talk, we love covering everything soccer related. For the most part, that means covering games and providing analysis/opinions. However, our overall mission and purpose is far reaching and ambitious. Our goal is to bring the soccer community closer together through collaboration and communication.  There are countless people that deserve recognition for their efforts as a player, official, or coach. Throughout the season, we will be highlighting these individuals through our Get To Know Me articles.

This will be a series made up of three different components. All of which are meant to bring attention to the soccer community.

1. Get To Know Me (Coach Edition) – These individuals are responsible for building their programs, growing the game of soccer, and mentoring the next generation. We look forward to learning about their lives and philosophies.
2. Get To Know Me (Player Edition) – This article series will focus on high school juniors and seniors that have demonstrated themselves to be quality players and people. With these features, our community will learn about some of the most impressive players in the state. 
3. Future of the Game – This article series will focus on the freshmen and sophomore classes. These are players that we will be covering for years to come.

Thank you to every individual that provided information for this idea. We appreciate your thoughtful and timely responses.

Laine Alber

Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Kathy Alber and Corey Alber

High School Soccer Team: Burke Girls Varsity Soccer 

Position: I normally play goalie 

Club Team: I play for SOFC

Grade: I am currently a junior

What is your favorite subject in school? Why? 

My favorite subject in school is either math or science, but I specifically love chemistry. I like STEM classes because they always have a specific answer to each question and I love the challenge of finding that one answer.

What are your future plans? 

Currently, my plan is to go to a college somewhere in town or in the state and my dream school is Creighton! I want to major in biology or chemistry in hopes of following the pre-pharmacy track to become a pharmacist when I am older!

Who’s your favorite soccer player and why? 

My favorite soccer player is Rose Lavelle on the US women’s national soccer team! I have loved her ever since she joined the team, mainly because she was such a young player that was living out every little girl’s dream. I have always looked up to the women’s national team because they are so extremely talented and dedicated, so when Lavelle joined the team, she was just another great addition that contributed so much to the game. 

Throughout your high school career, you have undoubtedly learned many lessons and matured as a player. Based on those lessons and experiences, give three pieces of advice to your freshman self. 

I have learned so much about myself as a soccer player throughout my high school career and I am so incredibly grateful for all of the memories I have made by being a part of Burke’s soccer team. To my freshman self, I would say to remember the love I have for soccer; I tend to get so wrapped up in my own thoughts during games and practices that soccer becomes more of a stressor than a blessing. I often need to remind myself that the love I have for this sport is stronger than anything else and that I need to resort to that love and passion when I am facing hardships.

Another piece of advice I would have for my freshman self is to start viewing each game and practice as a new opportunity to improve and get better. Every failure and success has taught me so much in my soccer career and it all allows me to improve as a player, so it is always helpful to have that growth mindset that focuses on my progress rather than my struggles.

The final piece of advice I would have for my freshman self is to cherish each moment that I am able to play soccer with my teammates at Burke. With our season being cancelled last year because of the pandemic, everything has been put into perspective for me and I never want to take my high school soccer experience for granted again. I have formed so many life-long friendships by playing for Burke and the memories I have made with this team will continue to stick with me for the rest of my life. 

Who has helped you become the player that you are today? How did they help you? Is there anything you would like to tell them? 

Without a doubt, my sister Payton Alber has helped me become the soccer player and person I am today. I owe absolutely everything to her; she has taught me everything I know and she is truly the person I look up to most. Payton helps me stay grounded in life and she is constantly encouraging me to be hardworking and give 100% on and off the field. I remember growing up and watching her play soccer her entire life, so naturally I wanted to start playing soccer as well. My sister has always come to my soccer games and practiced soccer with me in our backyard; she has always been my number one supporter and I cannot thank her enough for it. 

Could you see yourself coaching soccer someday? Is that a path that you are interested in following? If so, why? 

I could easily see myself coaching soccer someday! I do not think I will ever lose passion for this sport so I would love to see myself pass on my love for soccer to another generation of kids. In my day to day life, I would not consider myself a leader, but this completely changes when I step onto the soccer field. Soccer gives me a sense of confidence and authority that I often lack in other parts of my life. Being a soccer coach would allow me to step up as a leader and teach kids about this amazing sport and hopefully give them the confidence that I gain from soccer as well. 

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

At Nebraska Soccer Talk, we love covering everything soccer related. For the most part, that means covering games and providing analysis/opinions. However, our overall mission and purpose is far reaching and ambitious. Our goal is to bring the soccer community closer together through collaboration and communication.  There are countless people that deserve recognition for their efforts as a player, official, or coach. Throughout the season, we will be highlighting these individuals through our Get To Know Me articles.

This will be a series made up of three different components. All of which are meant to bring attention to the soccer community.

1. Get To Know Me (Coach Edition) – These individuals are responsible for building their programs, growing the game of soccer, and mentoring the next generation. We look forward to learning about their lives and philosophies.
2. Get To Know Me (Player Edition) – This article series will focus on high school juniors and seniors that have demonstrated themselves to be quality players and people. With these features, our community will learn about some of the most impressive players in the state. 
3. Future of the Game – This article series will focus on the freshmen and sophomore classes. These are players that we will be covering for years to come.

Thank you to every individual that provided information for this idea. We appreciate your thoughtful and timely responses.

 Camdyn Pilkington

Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Mark and Janna Pilkington

High School Soccer Team: Elkhorn South Girls Soccer

Position: Outside back, defensive mid

Club Team: Midwest Premier Academy

Grade: 11th

What is your favorite subject in school? Why? Chemistry because my teacher is awesome, and we are always doing something fun or interesting experiments.

What are your future plans? Go to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and do something in the medical field, I don’t plan to play college soccer.

Who’s your favorite soccer player and why?

I would say my favorite soccer player is Julie Ertz because I have always followed her and liked her as a player and as a person. I think the foundation she created with her husband is really cool, and I like that she makes an impact on and off the field.

Throughout your high school career, you have undoubtedly learned many lessons and matured as a player. Based on those lessons and experiences, give three pieces of advice to your freshman self. 

My sophomore season got cancelled due to COVID and that taught me to not take anything for granted, because anything can be taken from you in a heartbeat. Don’t get caught up in whether you’re a starter or not, you don’t have to start or play the entire game to be a contributor to the teams success. Have fun. High school flies by and especially losing an entire season has taught me to just have fun and take in every moment because it’ll be over before you know it.

Who has helped you become the player that you are today? How did they help you? Is there anything you would like to tell them?

Definitely my parents. They have always supported me and been there for me, and I definitely don’t thank them enough for what they have done for me, so thank you Mom and Dad!

Could you see yourself coaching soccer someday? Is that a path that you are interested in following? If so, why?

I could definitely see myself coaching someday, because I want to keep soccer in my life, and since I am probably not playing after high school, I would love to coach to continue being around the sport.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

At Nebraska Soccer Talk, we love covering everything soccer related. For the most part, that means covering games and providing analysis/opinions. However, our overall mission and purpose is far reaching and ambitious. Our goal is to bring the soccer community closer together through collaboration and communication.  There are countless people that deserve recognition for their efforts as a player, official, or coach. Throughout the season, we will be highlighting these individuals through our Get To Know Me articles.

This will be a series made up of three different components. All of which are meant to bring attention to the soccer community.

1. Get To Know Me (Coach Edition) – These individuals are responsible for building their programs, growing the game of soccer, and mentoring the next generation. We look forward to learning about their lives and philosophies.
2. Get To Know Me (Player Edition) – This article series will focus on high school juniors and seniors that have demonstrated themselves to be quality players and people. With these features, our community will learn about some of the most impressive players in the state.
3. Future of the Game – This article series will focus on the freshmen and sophomore classes. These are players that we will be covering for years to come.

Thank you to every individual that provided information for this idea. We appreciate your thoughtful and timely responses.

Ruby Kirk

Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Patrick Kirk and Nancy Kirk

High School Soccer Team: Elkhorn South Girls Soccer Team

Position: Forward

Club Team: I play for Midwest Premier Academy on the 04 girls NPL team (shoutout coach Doug and Digger!)

Grade: I am currently a junior.

What is your favorite subject in school? Why? My favorite subject would have to be chemistry. Something about balancing equations is just fun for me.

What are your future plans? My future plan is to attend college and play division 1 soccer. The challenging part is finding the correct school!

Who’s your favorite soccer player and why?

My favorite soccer player would have to be Alex Morgan. She’s just been a huge inspiration to me since I was a young girl. I basically grew up watching her. I think she’s a great female icon for women of all ages. And she wears #13 (which is my number too.)

Throughout your high school career, you have undoubtedly learned many lessons and matured as a player. Based on those lessons and experiences, give three pieces of advice to your freshman self. 

I have learned so much and the three things I would say would be as follows:

• Hard work pays off, so if you’re always working your hardest and doing your best good things will come.
• You pave your own path for your future, so block out what others have to say.
• Being a good teammate is just as important as being a good player individually, so always make sure you’re on the same page as your peers.

Who has helped you become the player that you are today? How did they help you? Is there anything you would like to tell them?

There has honestly been too many people to count. All of my coaches, family, and friends have had huge impacts on me and my love for the game of soccer. The girls who I play with on my club team have definitely been the most impactful. Some of my teammates have been playing soccer with me since the age of 5. I wouldn’t give up the time spent with them for anything. I’ve learned so many lessons and shared tons of memories with those girls and they have not only made me the person I am today, but have also increased my love and skill in regards to soccer.

Could you see yourself coaching soccer someday? Is that a path that you are interested in following? If so, why?

I could definitely see myself coaching soccer one day. I plan to have kids and they will definitely be playing as soon as they can kick a ball, and I don’t think I’d mind being their coach too!

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

At Nebraska Soccer Talk, we love covering everything soccer related. For the most part, that means covering games and providing analysis/opinions. However, our overall mission and purpose is far reaching and ambitious. Our goal is to bring the soccer community closer together through collaboration and communication.  There are countless people that deserve recognition for their efforts as a player, official, or coach. Throughout the season, we will be highlighting these individuals through our Get To Know Me articles.

This will be a series made up of three different components. All of which are meant to bring attention to the soccer community.

1. Get To Know Me (Coach Edition) – These individuals are responsible for building their programs, growing the game of soccer, and mentoring the next generation. We look forward to learning about their lives and philosophies.
2. Get To Know Me (Player Edition) – This article series will focus on high school juniors and seniors that have demonstrated themselves to be quality players and people. With these features, our community will learn about some of the most impressive players in the state.
3. Future of the Game – This article series will focus on the freshmen and sophomore classes. These are players that we will be covering for years to come.

Thank you to every individual that provided information for this idea. We appreciate your thoughtful and timely responses.

Haley Peterson

Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Pete and Andrea Peterson

High School Soccer Team: Lincoln East Girls Soccer

Position: Center Mid

Club Team: Villarreal Nebraska

Grade: Senior

What is your favorite subject in school? Why? My favorite subject is math because it’s challenging but I understand it and always has a right answer

What are your future plans?: Next year I will attend the University of Nebraska Lincoln to continue my academic and soccer career.

Who’s your favorite soccer player and why?

I don’t necessarily have a favorite player, but if I had to choose I would pick Mbappé. He is very fun to watch, plays with a lot of style, and is very skillful off the dribble.

Throughout your high school career, you have undoubtedly learned many lessons and matured as a player. Based on those lessons and experiences, give three pieces of advice to your freshman self.

Hard work pays off, put in the time and make yourself better every day. Believe in
yourself. Live in the moment and do not take anything for granted.

Who has helped you become the player that you are today? How did they help you? Is there anything you would like to tell them?

There are many people who have helped me to get to where I am today like my past
teammates and coaches. One person that always comes to mind is my old coach, Jo Rosenberger, not only did she teach me so much about the game of soccer, but she
taught me the importance of hard work and practice. She always challenged me to be
the best I could be and then some. I would like to thank her for helping shape me into
the player I have come to be.

Could you see yourself coaching soccer someday? Is that a path that you are interested in following? If so, why?

I could see myself coaching someday. Soccer is something I am really passionate about, and I want to share that with others. I have thought about coaching one day because of how big of an impact my coaches have had on me.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

At Nebraska Soccer Talk, we love covering everything soccer related. For the most part, that means covering games and providing analysis/opinions. However, our overall mission and purpose is far reaching and ambitious. Our goal is to bring the soccer community closer together through collaboration and communication.  There are countless people that deserve recognition for their efforts as a player, official, or coach. Throughout the season, we will be highlighting these individuals through our Get To Know Me articles.

This will be a series made up of three different components. All of which are meant to bring attention to the soccer community.

1. Get To Know Me (Coach Edition) – These individuals are responsible for building their programs, growing the game of soccer, and mentoring the next generation. We look forward to learning about their lives and philosophies.
2. Get To Know Me (Player Edition) – This article series will focus on high school juniors and seniors that have demonstrated themselves to be quality players and people. With these features, our community will learn about some of the most impressive players in the state.
3. Future of the Game – This article series will focus on the freshmen and sophomore classes. These are players that we will be covering for years to come.

Thank you to every individual that provided information for this idea. We appreciate your thoughtful and timely responses.

Ian Becerra

Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Gil Becerra & Janet Scott

High School Soccer Team: Lincoln High School, Boys Varsity Team, 4-year starter

Position: Attacking Midfield

Club Team: Hawks FC, 2002 Boys / NFC, 02 Stevenson – 2020 State Champions

Grade: 12th

What is your favorite subject in school? Why? History & Spanish. I have had awesome teachers – shout out to Chris Turley, Andrew Bargen, and Señora Stetson.

What are your future plans? Undecided. I plan to attend college and would like to continue playing soccer, but I’m still considering my options.

Who’s your favorite soccer player and why?

Andres Iniesta or Ronaldinho. I love Iniesta’s style of play and how he can see a play before anyone else and execute it through a perfect pass. I love Ronaldinho’s flair and how much he loves playing; he always has a smile on his face.

Throughout your high school career, you have undoubtedly learned many lessons and matured as a  player. Based on those lessons and experiences, give three pieces of advice to your freshman self.

Stay focused on your goals. There are a lot of distractions, but if you really want something, be willing to work hard for what you want. You never know what you can or can’t do until you try. There is no off-season in soccer. Always play to the whistle.

Who has helped you become the player that you are today? How did they help you? Is there anything you would like to tell them?  

I have a lot of people to thank for helping me be the player that I am today. First, my parents have always pushed me to do better and work hard. My mom has sacrificed not just for me,  but for many other soccer kids. The Gil Becerra program has made all the difference. Chad Carter’s program helped too – he’s definitely taught me about style. Rashad Moxy pushed me to the limit – he made me cry, vomit, and cramp – but he made me better. He taught me to never be satisfied and to focus, not on my strengths, but on improving my weaknesses.

I want to thank all my club coaches since I was 4-yrs-old who have helped to shape my game and my personality. A special thank you to Coach Mike Dean of SOFC and Coach Malcolm Crummy of Hawks. Coach Alex Cerny believed in me and gave me a chance as a freshman. My 7th and 8th-grade cross country coach, Ms. Eastman, inspired my running. She taught me that every race and every game present a lesson to learn. Thank you to the 2006 Hawks team for teaching me about character and leadership. And finally, soccer is a team sport, so I have to thank my teammates on my club and high-school teams – I wouldn’t be the player or the person I am without them. 

Could you see yourself coaching soccer someday? Is that a path that you are interested in following? If so,  why?

Yes, because I’m good at seeing the little things that make a difference. I have mentored and helped coach younger Hawks players and I enjoy seeing their success in high-school. Soccer can be more than a sport, it can have major impact on what opportunities one has and what kind of character one develops. I want to be a part of this sport throughout my life.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison