Constantly sprinting up and down the turf, freshman Grace Stickel displays quick speed and stamina on the soccer field. Playing the fast paced position of outside midfield, being able to take accurate shots, and having exceptional ball control are some of the aspects of the game that Stickel excels in.

Senior captain Lauren Walter feels that Stickel always puts in 100 percent effort during every game and practice.

“She is always willing to try her hardest and she has great ball control on 1v1’s,” said Walter. “She’s an extremely promising player.” 

Stickel has been playing soccer since she was four or five years old, and has always enjoyed the sport for it’s intense nature.

“I enjoy playing soccer because I like the competition,” said Stickel.

During the summer when she was deciding whether or not to play this season, it was an easy decision for her.

“I’ve been playing soccer for a really long time and I couldn’t imagine stopping, so I just figured I would continue to play at WA,” said Stickel.

Over the summer, she attended many of the captains’ practices to prepare for the upcoming tryouts. She also ran often to increase her endurance and speed to be up to par for this position.

In the past, Stickel has participated in Westford travel, middle school and club soccer leagues. After the fall season is over, she will continue to play club soccer in the spring for FC Stars, a soccer club in Massachusetts.  

Stickel feels that her freshman year is going well so far, especially because the soccer team has helped her meet a lot of new people. Her favorite class so far is history.

In middle school, she was a three season athlete and kept up with her school work. So even with practice everyday for 2 hours and multiple games per week, she is not too worried that it will be difficult to balance school and sports.

Though she has only just started high school, she sees herself participating in soccer even after she graduates. After high school, she also plans on going to college and working with kids in her profession.

“After high school I am definitely going to college and I want to work with kids, possibly a pediatrician,” said Stickel.

Walter feels that Stickel works hard to become a better player and always brings a positive outlook to every situation.

“She brings such a great attitude always. She’s always willing to listen and work to make herself a better player,” said Walter. “She fit in right away and improves daily. We love her on the team.”