Kellyn Strickler, St. Stephen's Episcopal School

Kellyn Strickler

Class: 2029
Position: GK/F
Height: 5'7"
School: St. Stephen's Episcopal School
Club Team: Sting Austin ECNL
Birthdate: March 14, 2011

State
Position

Player Bio

How would you briefly describe your gameplay style?

I am a very involved GK, issuing verbal guidance off the ball, positioning myself as an outlet for pressure situations, and doing my best to minimize scoring opportunities. My coaches prefer to build out of the back, teaching us to manage and break pressure situations, so I have come to appreciate the technical and tactical requirements for doing so.

Can you provide a brief description of your mentality or personality?

I have adopted the best parts of my parents' personalities, so I don't dwell on the negative, move on quickly from mistakes in matches, but review them later to learn how to prevent them. Each new moment is a reset opportunity, which is an important mindset for a GK.

Are you involved in any clubs, organizations, or have you received any non-sport awards?

I am about to begin my high school career, but in middle school I served on Student Council from grades 5 through 8, am currently a member of the National Jr. Honor Society, and manage my club team's volunteer hours program for local food bank organizations.

What skills or qualities have you developed, such as leadership, teamwork, or community service?

When I first began playing GK I was afraid to tell my teammates what to do because I had difficulty separating soccer from my friendships with them. Soccer taught me that since we are working for a common goal, I wasn't being bossy, I was helping us work together better. Ever since, my leadership style has been to ensure they believe we are working for a common goal and to never feel targeted.

Have you faced any significant challenges? If so, please describe.

I am fortunate at this point in my life to not have faced any significant challenges. My parents ensure me they will come, it is just a question of how and when. Lesser challenges include balancing academics, sports, and personal time, where the challenge is doing each of them well enough to stand out in each of the environments when there are so many other high-quality people.

What type of college are you looking for?

My parents have stressed the importance of education as a stepping-stone in life, but I am not yet sure I can answer this question yet other than to say one with both strong academic and women's soccer programs. I have talked to current and former college athletes and have been told by several that they each found a place that felt like home to them and that I would experience the same one day.