Both on and off the field, senior Hannah Schmidt is a key asset for the WJ girls’ soccer team. As an outside defender, she is a crucial part of the team’s defense and attack system. With over 13 years of experience, she plans to take her knowledge and skills to the next level at Kenyon College. 

Schmidt’s soccer journey goes back to when she was only 4-years-old, playing on her preschool soccer team.

“My first soccer coaches were my parents, but my first club coach, coach Jeremy, grew my love for the sport by being lots of fun and making me enjoy soccer practices and games,” Schmidt said.

Schmidt’s speed and consistency give her a pivotal role in the WJ girls’ soccer team system in both offense and defense. Her ability to swiftly transition between defense and attack allows her to disrupt the opponent’s plays while enhancing attack opportunities. 

“[Schmidt] uses her speed and awareness to shut down opposing wingers, preventing crosses and winning key challenges. She’s so quick to transition the ball forward, often joining the attack to provide width and support,” coach Neil Gottlieb said. 

In addition to being an essential asset with her soccer skills, Schmidt provides crucial leadership for the team. Her influence extends beyond practices and games by encouraging a supportive team environment.

“[Schmidt] contributes to the positivity off the field and is one of the reasons we had such a successful preseason and hopefully a successful regular season too,” girls’ soccer captain and junior Evie Avillo said.

Schmidt decided on the Division III (DIII) commitment route after considering her academic and athletic priorities. She wanted a well-rounded college experience where she could continue to grow her passion while pursuing her academic interests.

“I knew I wanted to play soccer in college but I didn’t want it to be my entire college experience since I don’t plan on doing it past college. DIII provided me with the best balance of athletics and academics,” Schmidt said. 

A visit to Kenyon College solidified her decision by seeing the supportive college community and the personal connections she made with the soccer coaches and she verbally committed to Kenyon College this past summer. 

“When I visited the campus, it felt right and I fell in love. The coaches and students I met there were super nice and it just felt like a place where I could see myself going there,” Schmidt said.  

As she is starting her final season with WJ soccer, Schmidt is enthusiastic about her future and eager to bring her passion and skills to Kenyon College. 

“Her dedication and growth have really made a positive impact on the team’s dynamic and I know she will be a great asset representing Kenyon College on and off the field,” Gottlieb said.