College division I athletics are not what they used to be, with the increased competition and talented athletes, being a division one athlete is almost like playing in the pros, especially at big time programs. Women’s soccer has been gaining lots of attention in the past few years because of the rise in competition and level of intensity that it requires.

Two student athletes from WJ have been the focus of numerous division one programs since they made their debut with their club and high school teams. Junior Alexis Montgomery and sophomore Cammie Murtha both recently committed to  major division one programs.

Montgomery moved to the area in the beginning of her sophomore year and ever since has been a huge force in the success of her teams. One college in particular noticed Montgomery’s talent early on and offered her a deal she couldn’t refuse.

“I committed to the University of Delaware. It was the best option for me because I love the soccer program as whole,” said Montgomery.

Soccer wasn’t the only influence in Montgomery’s decision to Delaware but the atmosphere of the school played a big role as well.

“I completely fell in love with the whole campus town vibe and it was just a perfect place for me and it was exactly what I wanted in a college,” said Montgomery.

Murtha has had lots of success in her soccer career so far with selection to all-state teams and multiple views from division one programs. Murtha’s soccer club, Bethesda Impact, has helped her gain exposure over the years.

“My league sets up three major showcases per season where college coaches come to watch and scout and then we attend other smaller showcases on our own,” said Murtha. “Club soccer has had a huge impact in recruiting because colleges rarely come to high school games.”

Murtha’s accomplishments have caught the attention of programs such as Alabama, Maryland, Northwestern, Colorado, Princeton, Vanderbilt and Tennessee. When it came to making a decision, Tennessee was the most enticing to Murtha.

“I committed to the University of Tennessee because I believe that in the next two to three years they will be one of the top programs in the nation. I really loved the coach and I received an amazing offer,” said Murtha.

Montgomery and Murtha’s soccer careers are just starting out, and with lots of soccer ahead of them before college, they look to get better every day, and the future looks bright for the two athletes.