Student athletes face many obstacles throughout their high school careers. There are many factors that affect the decision every student must make, either to play or not play: balancing school work, practice and a social life. However, one athlete in particular faced another challenge. Varsity soccer player Ella Roberts was conflicted with her fluctuated decision on whether to play for her school or  her travel soccer team.

Roberts is a talented soccer player with an immense amount of experience under her belt. She has been playing since she was five and is now a junior in high school. Roberts’ love started when she played for the Chicago Kickers, but took a more serious turn when she decided to transfer over to Eclipse. Since Roberts started off at a young age, her skills developed and she was able to make the Varsity team as a freshman.

“I play soccer because it is a great way to stay active, compete and make amazing friends,” Roberts said.

Although Roberts started playing for high school, her sophomore year she decided to focus on travel ball instead. Her travel team’s coach held beliefs that focusing on club would be better for Roberts’s future play. Since coaches hold great influence over players, Roberts decided to take the approach and not play her sophomore year. However, despite missing one year, Roberts made the decision to come back and play for the Sequoits once again.

“I missed playing from the memories I made my freshman year and not my sophomore year,” Roberts said.  “It really made me realize how much I missed playing with my friends and creating great relationships.”

Roberts’ return is one that was welcomed with open arms.

“I am glad to have anyone who wants to come out and play for me,” Varsity soccer head coach Marni Polakow said. “Ella’s presence [makes] a difference. She is a very good player. She [plays] in the center of the field and control things for us.”

Center midfield is a tough position that requires lots of stamina and endurance. As a center midfielder, Roberts uses her speed and agility to win 50/50 balls and settle the ball for the Sequoits. She has the ability to set up her teammates with through ball passes or even to rip shots herself. Roberts is hopeful for a great season and strives to achieve as many team wins as they can continue to gain.

“Ella’s return means we have another player who works hard everyday and is a great teammate,” teammate Morgan Keefer said.

Soccer is a fast-paced sport that requires teams to obtain good communication skills and truly work together in order to succeed. In addition, hard work will always pay off in the end. Although winning every game is the ultimate goal, working hard and as a team will always be a sign of true teamwork in the beautiful game. Roberts hopes to see all her hard work will result in a winning season.

“I’m still going to play for travel, but hopefully I commit to a college before next year’s high school season so I can spend my senior year focusing on playing for Antioch,” Roberts said.

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After the initial interview was conducted and at the time of press, Roberts officially verbally committed to Winona State University to play soccer.