SoccerWire is publishing Q&A articles with players who have Featured Profiles in the SoccerWire Recruiting Directory. The series allows players to share their stories on the college recruiting process, playing the game at the international level, travel and high school soccer, and their passion for the beautiful game.
In this edition we will showcase Kylie Testi, who plays club soccer in the ECNL for So Cal Blues and has verbally committed to play NCAA Division I soccer for Southern Illinois University in 2026.
SoccerWire Featured Player since June 2024.
What made you decide to verbally commit to Southern Illinois University?
I decided to verbally commit to Southern Illinois Unviersity because it felt like a home away from home. It’s pretty far from my hometown but that’s exactly what I was looking for a home away from home. For me the amazing culture of the team and the athletics the school had really helped drive my decision to verbally commit.
What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
For me the recruitment process was pretty stressful as it is for many people. Even through the stress I trusted that God would have a plan for me, and just trusting in him helped me get through this process. Through this process I learned many things about myself, the main thing for me that I learned about myself is when I trust myself and the process things work out any way whether it’s the way you want or not it will all work out.
How do you feel your strengths on the field will help SIU succeed?
My strengths such as my passion, athleticism, speed, and faith will help me on the field. They will help me to work my absolute hardest and have full faith in myself even in the hardest moments of the game.
What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
My favorite subject I like in school is Anatomy. I really loved learning about my body and the amazing capabilities we have. I feel like it was also different than all the other classes I have taken here during my time in High-school. In college, I’m going to pursue my career in Nursing hopefully becoming a Pediatric Nurse.
What has your experience been like playing for So Cal Blues in the ECNL?
My experience at blues has been like no other. It’s always something I will remember and all the memories me and my teammates had whether that’s last minute goals, hotel stays, or just the fun practices. It’s all been so amazing and definitely something to remember.
What are your favorite pair of cleats that you have ever owned?
My favorite pair of cleats that I owned were my black and white adidas or my black cleats I have now. I feel as though I have played some of my best games in those cleats.
If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play at a high level, what would it be?
One piece of advice that I wish I had heard, is even though your schedule is MUCH busier then other people the work you put in is not diminished or looked over. Everyone knows the work you put in to get to the place your at, and when you get to the place you want you need to be humble and gracious about your work.
Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
I would like to give a shoutout to all my family, especially my parents that are always rooting for me. There always there for me for the good games and the bad so I’m ever thankful for that.
