It’s the athlete dream to take it to the next level and pursue the sport they love at a collegiate level. This is the case for junior Zoe Maxwell, who over the summer verbally committed to Brown University to play for their elite soccer team. Brown University, based in Providence, Rhode Island, is a Division 1 school in affiliation with the Ivy League and is known for its scholarly academics and beautiful campus aesthetics.
Although it is a dream come true for Maxwell, it was not as relieving and blissful as it may seem. The recruiting process for many athletes is a very stressful time and requires deep dedication and effort.
“The recruiting process was definitely stressful, difficult, and time consuming; [however], it was definitely worth it,” said Maxwell. “It took a lot of perseverance and it was a long journey, but I just had to stay strong through the whole thing.”
The recruiting process for soccer among many other sports begins very early.
Maxwell said, “Ever since I was young, I wanted to play in the future. But, freshman year was when I began the college process and knew I wanted to go somewhere.”
Maxwell, throughout the process, had a huge support system that helped guide her and undergo this journey alongside her.
“My club soccer coach helped me out a lot because he knew a lot of coaches and he was able to contact them. My parents were a huge part, they were extremely helpful and encouraging throughout the whole process.”
As a junior, it may seem that Maxwell has relieved some of the stress and the headaches that come with junior year, as she has already found her college, but she isn’t simply coasting to graduation. “It is definitely less pressure for junior year, but I still have to try my hardest and do well in all my classes.”
Even though Maxwell still has two years left, she is getting prepared and excited for the next chapter of her life.
“I am looking forward to the experience. I am really excited for the soccer program, and I am also excited to meet new people.”
Maxwell, who has visited the Brown campus twice, was not only interested in Brown, but in many other Division 1 schools as well. But ultimately, she knew Brown was the right choice for her.
“I felt a home feel,” she said. “I had a lot of favorite parts [of Brown]. I thought the campus was beautiful, and I loved the coaching staff and their philosophy on how to play.”
Maxwell is currently now still training with her club team WCFC, and participates on the girls varsity soccer team.
