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 Emma Grace Jeffiers, who has verbally committed to play NCAA Division II soccer in 2025 at Northwest Missouri State. Jeffiers plays travel soccer in the Girls Academy for Renegades SC.
In addition to playing for Renegades SC, Jeffiers also plays goalkeeper for Byron Nelson High School in Texas who just booked their spot in the 6A Girls Soccer Region I Quarterfinals.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to verbally commit to Northwest Missouri State?
Emma Grace Jeffiers: I loved the atmosphere and how personable the coaches and girls were with me. I loved the small town and college town feel. It felt like a second home. They also provided incredible resources for me not only as an athlete, but as a student too.
SW: What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
EJ: My recruiting process had a lot of ups and downs. The one thing I learned was to explore every opportunity I was given. I learned so much more about what I wanted in a school by doing that. I definitely learned to keep going and to trust the process.
SW: How do you believe your skillset fits into their style of play?
EJ: Northwest is able to be adaptable to different formations with different competitors. I also love building out of the back but also sending the long ball when the opportunity presents itself to attack.
SW: What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
EJ: My favorite subject is English, specifically writing. I am planning to study elementary education at Northwest Missouri State.
SW: Growing up, who was your favorite soccer player?
EJ: Abby Wambach, even though she isn’t a goalkeeper. I loved her energy, competitiveness, and how aggressive she was attacking the ball.
SW: Outside of soccer, what clubs, organizations, and/or jobs are you involved in?
EJ: I have been involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) through my high school- Byron Nelson High School. I have also been able to have an internship through high school which allows me to intern in a second grade class.
SW: What are your favorite pair of goalie gloves that you have ever owned?
EJ: West Coast Gloves definitely- Kona
SW: What has your experience been like playing for Renegades SC?
EJ: I have really enjoyed playing for Renegades. Coach Rick has great adaptability and has helped me grow so much as a player.
SW: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play as a goalkeeper what would it be?
EJ: Don’t spend too much time on one goal conceded. I wasted too much time on the one goal I let in instead of the shot in front of me next. Don’t be so hard on yourself, it is a team sport.
SW: Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
EJ: All of my friends who I have know forever- Sophia Moore, Nadia Ortiz, Reyna Heisserer and Taylor Ketler
