SoccerWire is publishing Q&A articles with recently-committed players who have Featured Profiles in the SoccerWire Recruiting Directory. The series allows players to share their stories on the college recruiting process, travel and high school soccer, and their passion for the beautiful game.
In this edition we will showcase Jessica Howard, who has verbally committed to play NCAA Division I soccer in 2025 at Stetson. Howard plays travel soccer in the Girls ECNL for FC Wisconsin.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to verbally commit to Stetson?
Jessica Howard: When I walked in, right away I felt welcomed! The players and the coaching staff made me feel like their program was the right fit for me.
SW: How does their style of play fit your skillset?
JH: They like their outside backs to get up the field and join the attack which is exactly how I like to play my position.
SW: What has been your experience like playing with Wisconsin
JH: FC Wisconsin has been amazing. Competing in the ECNL has given me super high competition to play against and the fun of traveling while playing the sport I love. I have a great relationship with my coaches and teammates at FC Wisconsin.
SW: How has playing for FC Wisconsin helped you grow as a player and as a person?
JH: As a person, FCW has taught me how to be more responsible. As a player, they have taught me how to be more competitive and more committed.
SW: What are you interested in studying at Stetson?
JH: Business and Accounting.
SW: Outside of soccer, are you involved in any clubs or organizations (For example: National Honors Society, French Club, working a job, etc.)?
JH: I work at a restaurant during the school year. During the summer, I work at a day camp run by my former karate school. Sometimes I nanny for a set of twins as well.
SW: Growing up, who was your favorite soccer player?
JH: Neymar
SW: Do you have a favorite pair of soccer cleats?
JH: I usually wear either Nike cleats or Puma cleats.
SW: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player who wants to be a defender what would it be?
JH: Don’t be afraid to make a mistake, it holds you back as a defender. Make the mistake and learn from it. I spent too much time as a younger player being afraid to make any mistakes.
SW: Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you in your career?
JH: Andy Lee for teaching me everything that I know about soccer and for being my coach since I was 7 or 8 years old. Thank you for helping me develop as a player and as a person!
