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 Ava Patterson, who has committed to playing NCAA Division III soccer in 2024 at Stevenson University. Patterson plays travel soccer in the ECNL Girls Regional League for Prince William Courage.
Patterson plays goalkeeper in the ECNL-Regional League for PWSI Courage out of Virginia. She is a member of the state ODP team and has also played in the WPSL.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to commit to Stevenson?
Ava Patterson: Stevenson University was the only school that checked all the boxes- the location was great, it had my major, I get to play soccer, and it was the only school I could really see myself at for four years (Plus, the dorms look AMAZING!).
SW: What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
AP: The recruiting process was unexpected. I went to ID clinics where there were lots of schools but most (all divisions) who were interested didn’t have my major. I liked some of the schools but didn’t love them until Stevenson and it was like everything fell in place.
SW: When did you first start playing goalkeeper and what do you like most about the position?
AP: I started playing soccer two and a half years ago and fell in love with the goalkeeper position! I trained nonstop, but I loved goalkeeper most because it allowed me to play on so many teams (WPSL, Boys travel, ECNL-RL)
SW: What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
AP: My favorite subjects in school are Engineering & Sports Medicine. In college, I want to major in Biomedical Engineering.
SW: Outside of soccer, what clubs, organizations, and/or jobs are you involved in?
AP: I am the Senior Representative for the Ruriteen Club dedicated to providing community service in and outside of school and I work part-time at Sweet ZeN7.
SW: What are your favorite pair of goalie gloves that you have ever owned?
AP: My favorite goalie gloves to train and play are made by Mauer athletics but I will never forget my first pair of upgraded gloves I got for Christmas which were customized to with my name!
SW: What has your experience been like playing for Prince William Courage?
AP: Playing on PWSI’s ECNL-RL team allowed me to continue to grow as a player. The entire team has so much skill and they have helped me play at a higher level.
SW: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play goalkeeper what would it be?
AP: Every player makes mistakes; every goalkeeper makes mistakes, focus on how you react to them and make sure you work hard so you get to choose the next step vs people choosing for you!
SW: Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
AP: So many coaches to mention (Coach Lynn, Coach Chris, Coach Vicky) but my Mom has been there for every practice, game, ID clinic, showcase and all of the pictures you see on my social media are from my Dad!
