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 MacKenzie Stearns, who plays club soccer in the ECNL for So Cal Blues, and has verbally committed to play for the Washington Huskies in 2026.
SoccerWire Featured Player since November 2021.
What made you decide to verbally commit to Washington?
I decided to verbally commit to the University of Washington because I love the environment both on and off the field. Nicole Van Dyke has done such an amazing job creating team chemistry while still keeping the team competitive, which is what I was looking for in a school. UW also has great academics and an amazing campus as well.
What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
Personally I really enjoyed the recruiting process. I thought it was such a great experience to talk to new people, and make so many new connections. As I continued to go through this process, I learned that I was looking for a school that best fit my idea of my college soccer experience.
How do you feel your strengths on the field will help the Huskies?
I think that I have a very good understand of the game, along with good technique. However, one of my greatest strengths is my leadership on the field. I think this can help continue the team chemistry and bonding that the coaching staff has worked hard to create in the years before me.
What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
My favorite subject in school is English. While I don’t know yet what I would like to study in college, I know that UW is the best place to help me discover this.
What has your experience been like playing for So Cal Blues so far?
In the last 2.5 years playing for SoCal Blues I have developed other parts of my game that have helped me become a more well rounded player. Rob Rennie and Tad Bobak have taught me valuable lessons that we’ll be things that I take with me throughout my career.
What are your favorite pair of cleats that you have ever owned?
My favorite pair of cleats I have ever owned is the Nike Mercurial Superfly Elites. I have owned this same style since 2019, and just keep getting different colors.
If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play at a high level, what would it be?
If I could give any advice to a younger player I would tell them that mistakes don’t define you, your reaction to them does. Every time you play it’s inevitable that mistakes will happen. However, the thing that people and coaches will remember is what you did after the mistake.
Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
The biggest shoutout goes to my family. Thank you to my mom for driving me two hours each way to practice. My dad for being my first coach, and sharing his love of the game with me. Finally thank you to my sister, Madi, for being my biggest supporter. My family has truly supported me and sacrificed so much to allow me to fulfill my goals.
