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 Katie Derby, who plays club soccer in the ECNL for LA Breakers FC and has verbally committed to play NCAA Division III soccer for Johns Hopkins University in 2026.
SoccerWire Featured Player since December 2024.
What made you decide to verbally commit to Johns Hopkins University?
I have always wanted to pursue a career in medicine, and when it comes to schools with great pre-med programs, Hopkins is one of the best. Beyond being interested in the outstanding academics at Hopkins, it has a very successful soccer program with players that are equally focused on their sport and studies. Finally, the coaches are kind and engaging, but able to create a competitive environment. Overall, Hopkins offers amazing opportunities in academics and athletics.
What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
My recruiting process was interesting. I began going to ID camps around freshman year, but early that year, I tore my second ACL. The recovery was long and devastating as I felt behind when it came to recruiting, but it was also a rewarding experience. I learned personal responsibility, the meaning of grit, and that everything in life has to be earned. Staying in contact with coaches and working as hard as I could, I came back stronger and ready to pick back up where I left off.
How do you feel your strengths on the field will help your college team?
One skill that has always helped me on the field is my soccer IQ. I’ve been playing soccer since I was two and also love watching the sport. My coaches have called me sneaky in the ways I am able to escape defenders with a move and find a run through the backline. When in a game, I watch plays develop which allows me to break pressure and score goals. I believe that this is a strength that will serve me well in college.
What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
I’ve always loved STEM classes: science and math. In college, I plan to major in molecular and cellular biology and eventually enter medical school to become a doctor.
What has your experience been like playing for LA Breakers FC in the ECNL?
I’ve been at Breakers since I was seven years old and have enjoyed it. While I have had many coaches throughout the years, they have always been supportive of me on and off the field. My teammates are similarly supportive and I’m not looking forward to having to leave this team in a year.
What are your favorite pair of cleats that you have ever owned?
A couple years back I started wearing the Adidas Mundial Teams. They are leather so they mold perfectly to my feet and they are very comfortable. They are definitely my favorite 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?
If I had to give one piece of advice to a younger player, it would be to enjoy every moment on the field, because you never know when you might be taken off of it. Having suffered injuries, I know what it means to have soccer taken away. My experiences have given me a unique appreciation for the game, one that I believe all players should adopt. While practice might be tiring or you might be losing a game, you are still playing the sport that you love. Make every practice, private training, and game count because every minute is a privilege.
Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
I have an amazing support system behind me. My parents have provided me with constant encouragement and my sisters have always been there for me. Beyond their support, I owe my physical health to Holly Silvers. I first met Holly in eighth grade as a young kid after tearing my first ACL. Over the years, I have spent many hours with Holly doing surgical rehab and I am so thankful to have her in my life. Holly Silvers is an amazing physical therapist, but she is also the reason I am able to play soccer without fear or pain.
