SoccerWire is publishing Q&A articles with recently-committed players who have Featured Profiles in the SoccerWire Recruiting Directory. The series will allow 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 Zoe Anderson, who has committed to play NCAA Division I soccer in 2025 at Santa Clara. Anderson plays travel soccer in the ECNL for Northwest Elite FC and attends the Jesuit High School in Oregon.
SoccerWire Featured Player since July 2023.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to verbally commit to Santa Clara?
Zoe Anderson: I chose to commit to Santa Clara University’s women’s soccer program because it offers me the incredible opportunity to learn and grow as a goalkeeper. Their program is renowned for having some of the best coaches and players in the NCAA. I believe that training alongside such talent will push me to become the best goalkeeper I can be. Plus, the university’s strong emphasis on both academics and athletics aligns perfectly with my goals and values. I can’t wait to be part of the Broncos family and work towards becoming a great goalkeeper!
SW: What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
ZA: The recruiting process was definitely a rollercoaster ride for me. At times, it felt like trying to decipher a secret code from emails, text messages, and even Twitter follows. Some programs I was really passionate about were incredibly encouraging, while others seemed disinterested, which was tough to navigate emotionally. It often felt like I was at the mercy of the recruiters’ decisions, and that uncertainty was stressful.
But through this process, I learned that trusting the process is crucial. I realized that stressing over recruiting wouldn’t benefit me as much as focusing on self-improvement. So, I decided to channel my energy into becoming a better goalkeeper. I worked tirelessly on my technical skills and speed, with the goal of shining in the winter showcases.
In the end, this journey taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of staying committed to personal growth. It wasn’t easy, but I believe it’s making me not only a stronger player but also a more determined individual.
SW: Growing up- who was your favorite soccer player and your favorite team?
ZA: Growing up, my favorite goalkeeper was AD, Ariana Franch. I remember watching her play when I was just 10 years old, and from that moment on, I was hooked on women’s soccer.
When I met Bella Bixby she was still in the Thorns training program behind Brit Eckerstrom and AD, and back then she had time to train me a few times a month. Up until then I had not worked with a tall, female keeper, let alone a pro. Bella is a gifted coach, her learning plans are extremely helpful, it is easy to translate her coaching to the game. Bella will always be my favorite goalkeeper, I attend every home match and our seats are right behind the goal. She represents the best in Oregon soccer and I am really grateful to receive her mentorship.
Thanks to Bella’s guidance and encouragement, I started to allow myself to dream a little bigger. I began to imagine that one day, just maybe, I could follow in her footsteps and play at a D1 school, and perhaps even professionally.
SW: What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
ZA: My favorite subjects in school are definitely English and Chemistry. I find the beauty of language and the power of storytelling fascinating, and I’m equally drawn to the intricate world of chemistry and how it explains so much about our universe.
Looking ahead to college, I have a strong interest in pursuing a pre-medical track. I dream of going to medical school one day, especially when my soccer journey reaches its end. I believe that combining my passion for science with a career in medicine will allow me to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives, much like the way I strive to do on the soccer field.
SW: Outside of soccer, what clubs, organizations, and/or jobs are you involved in?
ZA: Outside of soccer, I have a pretty adventurous and diverse set of interests! I enjoy playing futsal, which keeps my soccer skills sharp in a different setting. Fishing, paddleboarding on the lakes of the Mount Hood wilderness, river-rafting, and ziplining are all activities that let me connect with nature and satisfy my love for adventure.
In school, I’m a member of the Psychology club, where I delve into the fascinating world of the human mind, and I also belong to the aviation club, which combines my love for adventure with aviation. On top of all that, I play the clarinet, adding a musical note to my diverse set of interests.
SW: What are your favorite pair of goalie gloves that you have ever owned?
ZA: Oh, I’ve been waiting for someone to ask me about my favorite gloves! For the past four years, I’ve been loyal to the Storelli Gladiators. These gloves have been my trusted companions. I prefer the bulkier style of gloves, and these fit snugly on my hand, providing excellent support. The generous foam padding on the palms and the rubber webbing across the knuckles for punching have been a game-changer for me.
SW: What has your experience been like playing for Northwest Elite?
ZA: Playing for NW Elite has been an incredible journey for me. I absolutely love my club and the amazing coaches who have guided us. The amount I’ve learned during my time with NW Elite is simply mind-blowing. It’s astonishing to see how far we’ve all come together as a team.
As a goalkeeper, this experience has been absolutely essential. I vividly remember my first year, facing over 250 shots on goal during the season. There’s nothing quite like being under fire in the net to accelerate your learning and growth.
Our Director of Coaching, Tiffeny Milbrett, is nothing short of a legend. She’s not only an Oregonian like us but also a driven and successful female soccer player. Seeing someone like her in a position of success has been incredibly inspiring. It makes me believe that achieving my own soccer dreams is truly possible. The support and mentorship from figures like Tiffeny and Bella Bixby have been invaluable in shaping my journey as a goalkeeper and a young athlete.
SW: How has social media and being a SoccerWire Featured Player helped you with the college recruiting process?
ZA: Social media and being a SoccerWire Featured Player have played a significant role in my college recruiting journey. I’m active on Twitter and Instagram, where I frequently post about my soccer experiences and engage with coaches and fellow players. It’s been incredibly helpful in several ways.
In the world of youth soccer, there are countless talented players, so it takes a lot of energy and hard work to stand out. Being featured on SoccerWire gave me a platform to reach more coaches and showcase my skills and dedication. It’s like having an extended network of people who are passionate about the game and invested in your success.
However, it’s pretty clear that while social media can get coaches’ attention, they ultimately want to see you play in person. Social media is a valuable tool for making connections and generating interest, but the real magic happens when you step onto the pitch.
SW: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play goalkeeper at a high level what would it be?
ZA: If I could give one piece of advice to a younger player aspiring to be a goalkeeper at a high level, it would be this: Never quit. Believe in yourself, and relentlessly focus on improvement.
It’s essential to understand that every goal that goes into your net is an opportunity to learn and get better. Don’t compare yourself to others, and avoid falling into a scarcity mindset. There’s enough success for everyone in the goalkeeper world, and your time will come if you work hard and stay dedicated.
Remember to support your fellow keepers, even those on the opposing team. Give them a fist bump after the game, no one else on the pitch knows what the two of you go through during a game. But perhaps most importantly, when you’re feeling frustrated, alone, or ashamed, don’t hold those feelings in. Reach out for support. You belong to the GK union, and we’ve got your back. We’ve all been through tough times, and now more than ever you have a huge community to support you through it all.
