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 Hailey Crabb, who plays club soccer in the Girls Academy for Kansas Rush, and has verbally committed to play for NCAA Division I program Middle Tennessee in 2026.
SoccerWire Featured Player since May 2023.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to verbally commit to MTSU?
Hailey Crabb: Definitely the team culture and the coaches, the team is a family. They love to volunteer and give back in the community which is a huge display of what type of culture they have. The coaches have a great vision for the future of the team and how I fit in to that vision, which I am excited to be able to be part of. I speak with the coaches weekly and love being part of their big picture and getting to know them better.
SW: What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
HC: The recruiting process definitely went faster than I expected, it was a rollercoaster, but was such a memorable experience. Once June 15th hit, I was on the phone constantly with coaches and that really helped me tune into what I was looking for in a soccer program and how I connected with the coaches. Definitely look for the right fit for yourself – location, culture, school size, and academics. As I was told go where you are celebrated and I definitely feel I have found that at MTSU.
SW: How do you feel your strengths on the field will help MTSU?
HC: I am definitely physical player and don’t back down from a challenge. I believe my effort, skill and knowledge on the field will allow me to compete at a high level and continue to grow and develop as a person and a player.
SW: What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
HC: Sports Medicine Injury Assessment is my favorite class currently, I am planning on majoring in Exercise Science or Kinesiology as I want to become a Physical Therapist.
SW: What has your experience been like playing for Kansas Rush so far?
HC: It has been awesome, I transferred in midseason a few years ago and the players accepted me on the team right away. I have seen a huge increase in my abilities over the past few years with the club. I have to travel 6 hours for pactice; so I make sure to give my best at each practice. The coaches continuously show how much trust they have in my knowledge and abilities. They continue to give me opportunities off the field as well, like being part of the Girls Academy Advisory Panel for two years now.
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?
HC: Put in the time and effort early on, don’t wait until the last minute. Consistency and effort are key – private lessons, practice on your own, play every chance you get. Know what you want after high school and lean into that.
SW: Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
HC: Courtney Scott (Heimlich) continues to be my biggest influence. She was one of my first club coaches and private trainers. She inspired me to also become a coach and have a love for the game off the field as well. She started her own soccer club and has shown how much you can inspire young players and a great culture.
I’m beyond excited to announce my verbal commitment to play division 1 soccer and further my education at Middle Tennessee State University. Thank you to my family, coaches, teammates and friends that have supported my journey. A huge thank you to @AstonRhoden , @hhoefs22 and… pic.twitter.com/eJb8Lzeug0
— ᕼᗩIᒪEY ᑕᖇᗩᗷᗷ · ᴄᴇɴᴛᴇʀ ʙᴀᴄᴋ · 2026 (@haileycrabb_) September 11, 2024
