SoccerWire is publishing Q&A articles with players who have Featured Profiles in the SoccerWire Recruiting Directory. The series allows players to share their stories on the college recruiting process, playing the game at the international level, travel and high school soccer, and their passion for the beautiful game.
In this edition we will showcase Clara Dowdle, who plays travel soccer in the Girls ECNL for Sting Dallas Royal, and has verbally committed to play college soccer in 2026 at Oregon.
SoccerWire Featured Player since November 2023.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to verbally commit to Oregon?
Clara Dowdle: I wanted to verbally commit to Oregon for multiple reasons. One of the main reasons is the atmosphere. You have to walk on the campus and love how it feels. I don’t know how to explain it other than if something feels off then that isn’t the place for you. Another reason is just all the support the athletes have. You have so many resources, both academically and athletically, that if you fail you’re really not even trying. My last reason is the coaches and the team. They are going to be your family for the next 4 years and I think that I will really love my new family! They are super fun to be around, and I just loved the vibe!
SW: What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
CD: My recruiting process was pretty quick but the day of June 15th I was driving home from Utah so I didn’t really take any calls. It was kind of crazy the different schools that would reach out. With most of them I had no idea they were following me or interested. I went on some visits, and I just knew I loved everything at Oregon, so I decided why wait if I knew what I want and committed.
SW: How do you feel your strengths on the field will help the Ducks?
CD: My strengths are definitely 1v1 defending and combining on the sides to help attack. I think I will be able to help distribute the ball in the attacking third and get more scoring opportunities while also helping lock down the defense, hopefully keeping some clean sheets. Communication is also a strength for me, helping to communicate certain things and helping my teammates be more aware.
CD: What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
SW: My favorite subject in school is English because I love to read and write! I want to be a first or second grade teacher. I love kids and I like the fact that there will be a new adventure every day.
SW: Outside of soccer, what clubs, organizations, and/or jobs are you involved in?
CD: My life is mostly soccer based or working out but when I have free time, I like to read, and binge shows. I’m joining NHS this year at my high school.
SW: What are your favorite pair of cleats that you have ever owned?
CD: My favorite pair of cleats were my Nike green Lunas. I customized them and put my nickname and number on them. Green is also my favorite color so that was a plus.
SW: What has your experience been like playing for Sting so far?
CD: I’ve played for Sting for most of my ECNL career. For all but 1 year of my ECNL career, I have played for Sting and I have loved it. My 4 coaches I have had have shaped my whole soccer career. They have helped me so much and made me who I am today on and off the field.
SW: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play at a high level what would it be?
CD: Work hard. Sometimes it won’t be fun, and you might feel like you’ve lost your love for the game but remember why you’re doing it. Everything you get in the end makes it worth it. If you want it, work for it. It’s okay to lose interest, it happens to all of us but what you do about it separates the great players from the good players.
SW: Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
CD: I would like to give a shout out to my parents for supporting me and being there to help me through this process. They took me to every camp, showcase, practice, and game and I’ll be forever grateful. I would also like to give a shout out to all my coaches I’ve had since I was 5, they know who they are. All their coaching styles and personalities have shaped me into who I am today on and off the field.
