SoccerWire is publishing Q&A articles with recently-committed players who are Featured in the SoccerWire Player 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 Alexa Barker, who has committed to play NCAA Division I soccer in 2025 at Alabama. Barker plays travel soccer in the ECNL for Solar SC.
SoccerWire Featured Player since November 2021.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to verbally commit to Alabama?
Alexa Barker: Besides Alabama being in a great college town and having the opportunity to create a great college experience for the student athlete, I would say the coaching staff was the ultimate reason I decided to commit to Alabama. Coach Hart and staff have a true vision of what they expect from their players and team day-in and day-out. The culture that he and his staff have created allows him to get the best out of his team and that was very important for me as a player to be a part of something bigger than me or any single player.
SW: What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
AB: I was blessed to be stressed about the process. It was a humbling experience to be desired by so many programs especially with the amount of talent that exists across the country. However, it can be a stressful process when timelines are involved and knowing you will have to say no to some great coaches and programs that you meet along the way. Through this process, I learned quickly how to communicate at a much higher level and that has made me a better player, student, and person!
SW: What are your favorite pair of soccer cleats that you have ever owned?
AB: Nike Phantom’s. They are one of the few cleats that seem to fit my foot properly, every time, and take very little effort for me to break them in. I literally wear my Phantom’s until they fall apart and have to be held together with duct tape.
SW: What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
AB: English & Science and I plan to major in Business at Alabama.
SW: Outside of soccer, what clubs, organizations, and/or jobs are you involved in?
AB: I am involved in the National Honor Society and was involved in PALS (Peer Assistance & Leadership)
SW: What is your favorite jersey that you have ever owned?
AB: My favorite jersey of all-time is my rec Comets jersey. I love this jersey so much because it brings me back to when I fell in love with the game at 4 years old.
SW: What has your experience been like playing for Solar?
AB : I have enjoyed my time at Solar. The most important thing for me is that the weekly practices are intense, and you must bring your best effort not only to games but trainings. This has helped me grow and become a better player year in and year out.
SW: How has social media and being a SoccerWire Featured Player helped you with the college recruiting process?
AB: I think social media, if utilized appropriately, can make a huge difference in the recruiting process. College coaches like to follow and track players they have interest in through social media. Additionally, you can land on a coach’s radar or grab their attention by utilizing short video clips, updates from showcases, and helping them understand who you are as a person through your social media posts. Being a Featured Player on SoccerWire has helped me become more visible to not only college coaches and their staff but also by other clubs and organizations.
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?
AB: I would let any young player that has a goal to play in college or their top club team that training outside of club practice is a MUST. Find a trainer that creates an environment of being uncomfortable, where you are forced to work on things that are not necessarily your strong suits. Additionally, find a club/coach/trainer that truly wants to see you succeed and will motivate you daily/weekly to be your best.
SW: Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
AB: Of course, my parents and grandparents. My grandmother, in particular, has been such an inspiration to not only my soccer career, but my life. Coach Tex McCullough, a local D/FW trainer and coach, who invests so much time and effort in his players that he trains. His engagement with his players is second to none. He deserves a lot of credit for who I am today! Thanks, Coach!
Also, Coach Lee Benting of Cruz Coaching, has not only helped me technically, but mentally. I would say his best attribute is being able to relate with young players, creating a positive environment that keeps players motivated all while being an excellent trainer.
