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 Kat Regan, who has verbally committed to play NCAA Division I soccer in 2025 at Merrimack. Regan plays travel soccer in the DPL for NEFC.
Won the DPL’s 2023 U17 Super Group National Championship with NEFC.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to commit to Merrimack?
Kat Regan: I love the culture at Merrimack, it is truly a family! It was awesome to hear that daughters of former players have gone on to play at Merrimack as well. Coach Gabe and Coach Paul have a combined 65+ years of coaching experience at Merrimack. They have created a winning program that never backs down from a challenge.
SW: What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
KR: The recruiting process took a lot longer than I thought, especially since some of my friends committed just after June 15th. I spent the summer traveling to ID camps only to realize there are so many amazing schools with incredible soccer programs here in the Northeast! The most important thing I learned was to not compare myself and my process to anyone else.
SW: How has social media helped you with the college recruiting process?
KR: I must admit I was a little late in starting to use social media for college recruiting. It is a great tool to use for outreach and as I have become more comfortable with it, I have enjoyed posting highlights and connecting with other players.
SW: What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
KR: I am an avid reader, so I enjoy English. I am thinking of studying Nutrition in college. I can be a picky eater, but I know how important nutrition is for athletes to achieve optimal performance and reduce their risk of injury. I would love to work with sports teams in the future.
SW: Outside of soccer, what clubs, organizations, and/or jobs are you involved in?
KR: I played ice hockey for club and high school as well as ran spring track. I have given up those two sports to concentrate this year on strength and conditioning. I work as a Lifeguard in the summer at my local pond and I volunteer at a nearby hospital.
SW: What has your experience been like playing for NEFC and in the Development Player League?
KR: I will be starting my 10th year playing for NEFC. There are so many talented players at my club, and I believe you must play better people to get better. I am excited to be joining the GA team and to have the opportunity to compete in the top league. As for the DPL, winning the National Super Group Championship last year was an incredible experience. Our team was disappointed in our 3rd and 4th place finishes in the previous years and through grit and determination we were able to finally accomplish our goal.
SW: How do you pump yourself up for a game? Do you have any pregame rituals or things that you like to do?
KR: I started wearing headbands that had soccer balls on them when I was around 10 years old. I had one to match every color jersey I wore. Over the years it has become somewhat of a superstition and to this day I still wear my matching soccer ball headbands. As for my pregame, I like to stay loose but locked in. I love playing soccer and I know I play best when I am enjoying myself and having fun.
SW: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that is starting the college recruiting process what would it be?
KR: My advice is that no two journeys are the same so do not compare. You will figure out a lot about yourself during the recruiting process. You must stay strong, remember your why and trust and believe. If you do that you will find the right fit.
SW: Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
KR: I would like to shout out to my mom for always being there for me and for being a great travel companion. To my dad, my brother and my sister, thanks for supporting my dream and not taking it easy on me when we play backyard soccer. Thanks to everyone who has been along for the ride- I couldn’t do it without you. Finally, to my Merrimack family I can’t wait to be on the field with you all!
