As part of a new content series, 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 Anna Claire Jacobi, who has recently committed to playing college soccer in 2024 at Appalachian State University. Jacobi plays her club soccer for Concorde Fire in the ECNL and attends high school at Cambridge (GA).
SoccerWire Featured Player since November 2020.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to verbally commit to Appalachian State?
Anna Claire Jacobi: I fell in love with Appalachian State after my official visit. It is a beautiful campus in the mountains and it didn’t compare to anything I had seen before. Aimee Haywood, Head coach, was a goalkeeper herself and understands the position very well. I love the direction and positive environment Coach Haywood has created with her players. The goalkeeper coach, Mikayla Krzeczowski, played at my same club Concorde Fire in her youth and we trained under the same goalkeeper coach, Glen Fox. I like the energy Mikayla has with her goalkeepers when I observed a training session, and I know I can learn a lot from her.
SW: What was the recruiting process like for you and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
AJ: I was coming back from an ACL tear when the recruiting process began for my class. I learned a lot about myself during the process and what I wanted out of my college soccer experience, especially having missed a year of club and high school soccer. I wanted to go somewhere I would be valued and have the opportunity to make an impact playing. I ultimately realized it truly has to be about the right fit!
SW: What are you interested in studying in college? What made you choose that field?
AJ: I really enjoy sciences. I am not sure exactly where that will lead me at this point whether eventually into the medical field or more of an environmental science field.
SW: What are your favorite pair of goalie gloves that you have ever owned?
AJ: I recently started using Titan Goalkeeper gloves because they are slim, fit well to my hand, and the grip is long lasting.
SW: How has playing for Concorde Fire helped you grow as a person and as a player?
AJ: My youth soccer experience at Concorde Fire has greatly impacted who I am today. Coach Caroline Maynor has coached me since I was 12 and my teammates will be lifelong friends. My memories with my team include winning the Disney Showcase and Jefferson Cup, winning the southeast ECNL conference each year since U13, and just growing up together.
SW: Who was your favorite player growing up and why?
AJ: I have had many favorite players while growing up including Alyssa Naeher and Brad Guzan. Brad Guzan was the Atlanta United Goalkeeper and I went to many of their games. I liked watching him direct his team and how he could kick a ball from goal to goal. Alyssa Naeher is amazing at saving PKs and is very fun to watch.
SW: Do you have a favorite pregame pump up song that you like to listen to?
AJ: My favorite pregame pump up song is Club Can’t Handle Me by Flo Rida.
SW: What activities or organizations are you involved in outside of soccer?
AJ: Outside of soccer, I like to spend time with my family and friends. I have an older brother and two younger brothers. I also am involved in youth group, community service, and the National Honors Society.
SW: If you could give one piece of advice to a player who is interested in playing goalkeeper what would it be?
AJ: My advice would be to believe in yourself and to not be afraid to be vocal and lead your team.
SW: If there is anyone you would like to give a shout out to for helping you in your soccer career?
AJ: Yes, two people who have always believed in me and pushed me to be my best are my club coach, Caroline Maynor, and my strength trainer, Cedric Sumpter.
