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 Aubrey McLin, who plays for Davis Legacy in the ECNL, and has verbally committed to play NCAA Division I soccer for Saint Mary’s (CA) in 2026.
SoccerWire Featured Player since July 2023.
What made you decide to verbally commit to Saint Mary’s?
Saint Mary’s checked all the boxes for what I wanted in a college, both academically and athletically. One of the biggest factors for me was the coaching staff. I wanted to feel a real connection with the entire staff, not just one coach. Before committing, I attended three ID camps where I got to know Coach Emily (GK coach/assistant), Mariah (Assistant Coach) and Coach Theresa (head coach). I was immediately drawn to their coaching style, mentality, energy, and how all three worked really well together. They push players to be their best while keeping things positive and fun. I know they’ll hold me accountable and also help me continue to grow and reach my goal of playing beyond college.
Academically, Saint Mary’s has an excellent kinesiology program, which fits perfectly with my interests. I also really like the seminar-style learning environment, it reminds me of the private Catholic and Christian schools I attended growing up, where smaller class sizes and discussion-based learning helped me thrive.
The location is another huge plus. It’s beautiful, close to COPA STC where I love to train, and near Bay FC so I can keep watching pro matches and studying the game. The Moraga area also has that tight-knit, community feel, similar to Davis, CA, where people really support each other and rally behind their local college and teams. That sense of community means a lot to me.
I also know a few current and former Gaels and they all speak highly of their experiences.
What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
The recruiting process taught me a lot about patience and resilience. It ended up being longer than I expected because of the NCAA roster limit changes, so I had to learn to trust the process and stay grounded. I also gained a better understanding of what college coaches go through, recruiting isn’t easy for either side.
After June 15th of my sophomore year, I had strong interest from several programs, calls, emails, texts, and ID camps. But once the roster changes took effect, things shifted. Many schools already had four goalkeepers and could only keep three, which meant some programs skipped recruiting 2026 GKs altogether. Suddenly, some of the interest I had started to fade.
That was tough, but it pushed me to stay positive and keep believing that the right opportunity would come at the right time. I realized how much faith I have in myself, my coach, and the process. In the end, it all worked out, everything aligned, and I found my place at Saint Mary’s, which had always been one of my top choices.
How do you feel your strengths on the field will help the Gaels?
I’d say my biggest strength is my footwork and composure under pressure. My foundation comes from playing futsal, which taught me to stay comfortable with the ball in tight spaces. I like drawing attackers in, creating space with quick, controlled movements, and shifting defenders to open up play. I’m confident stepping out of the 18 when it’s on, staying calm under pressure, breaking lines, and keeping the game flowing.
Defensively and offensively, I can help the team maintain control and build from the back. Communication is also a big part of my game, I’m vocal, organized, and make sure my teammates know what’s around them. My goal is to make the players around me better and help the team succeed.
What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
I actually really like math. I also enjoy economics and ceramics. For college, I want to focus on sports management, kinesiology, and human development.
What has your experience been like playing for Davis Legacy in the ECNL?
My experience playing for Davis Legacy in the ECNL has been a major part of my development as a player. It’s been challenging, rewarding, and invaluable. As Billie Jean King said, “Pressure is a privilege,” and that really fits. Competing against top talent in ECNL league games and showcases has pushed me to improve and adapt to different styles of play. It’s exciting to keep learning and growing through that level of competition. The exposure from ECNL showcases has also been huge in getting seen by college coaches. I’m really grateful for both my club and the ECNL for helping me take my game to the next level.
What are your favorite pair of cleats that you have ever owned?
My favorite pair of cleats are the ones I have right now because I got them customized with “The Wall” written on them. I know it sounds kind of nerdy, but it’s a nickname I was given when I was younger, and it’s stuck ever since. Honestly, as a goalkeeper, you’ve got to have a bit of a cocky attitude, you’re the last line of defense. You need to show that you’re fearless out there, and having “The Wall” on my cleats is a reminder to play like it every time I step on the field.
If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play at a high level, what would it be?
Focus on the controllables, never stopping, and just learning, moving forward, while truly wholeheartedly believing in yourself while surrounding yourself with the right people.
One quote that really stuck with me came from another student-athlete, “You can’t master your entire life in one day. Master the day and then keep doing it every day.” That mindset has helped me stay grounded and focused on steady growth, one day at a time.
Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
There are a couple of people I’d love to give a shoutout to, especially my coach, Jesus Mata. He always tells me my development was all me and never wants any credit but he’s wrong. I wouldn’t be where I am without him.
Yes, I put in the work and believed in myself, but I was guided and supported along the way. A few years ago, Coach Mata took a chance on me. I was raw and had potential, but I needed direction, someone to challenge me, hold me accountable, and believe in me. He was all of that and hard but fair. He ignited my passion for the game, not just as a player, but as a fan and future coach. He helped me understand what it truly means to compete and what it takes to grow.
And of course, my family, my mom, dad, nana, & siblings. They’ve been with me every step of the way. My parents especially have always trusted and allowed me to make my own choices from a young age. My mom taught me not to fear failure, to see it as part of growth. Because of that, I’m never afraid to put myself out there and take chances, knowing that’s the only way to really grow and succeed.
