SoccerWire is publishing Q&A articles with recently-committed players who have Featured Profiles in the SoccerWire Recruiting Directory. The series allows players to share their stories on the college recruiting process, travel and high school soccer, and their passion for the beautiful game.
In this edition we will showcase Sophia Moore, who has verbally committed to play NCAA Division I soccer in 2025 at UL Lafayette. Moore plays travel soccer in the Girls Academy for BVB International Academy Texas.
Moore plays for BVB International Academy in Texas and is the captain of her high school, Byron Nelson.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to commit to Louisiana at Lafayette
Sophia Moore: I could see myself playing there and loved everything about the school and programs there. I really loved the environment, coaching and athletic staff, location, and level of soccer. The school also provides the learning program of biology that I would want to study for pre-med.
SW: What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
SM: The recruiting process can be very stressful at times, although it is definitely rewarding in the end. I learned that coaches don’t want to hear things that they think you want them to hear but they want you to answer truthfully and be honest with what you want. It’s just conversations with coaches who want the best for the players so they will always be understanding. I also learned not to compare with friends and teammates because everyone’s process is different.
SW: When did you first start playing midfield and forward and what do you like most about each position?
SM: I’ve been playing midfield and forward since I started soccer at 4 years old. What I like most about playing midfield is that you get a better perspective and vision of the whole field, and playing the ball through to the forwards. And my favorite part of playing forward is having the freedom of movement and being creative with runs.
SW: What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
SM: My favorite subjects in school are anatomy and health science theory. I would like to study biology in college.
SW: Outside of soccer, what clubs, organizations, and/or jobs are you involved in?
SM: Church and pickleball.
SW: What are some of your soccer New Year’s Resolutions that you have for 2024? In other words, what are some of your goals for yourself on the field and for your club team and your high school team?
SM: My goal is to continue working on my physical strength and improve my left foot shooting, since those are some of my weaknesses. I want to help lead my High School to deep run in the State Playoffs and finish the club season strong with as many wins as possible.
SW: What are your favorite pair of cleats that you have ever owned?
SM: I’m not sure I have a favorite ever. I played with Adidas Predators for a long time and switched to Nike. I’ve recently switched to the Nike Tiempo Legends and I do really like them.
SW: What has your experience been like playing for BVB so far?
SM: My experience has been very good. I’ve had lots of opportunities here, especially with their SOE (School of Excellence) trip and camps. I love the coaches and their support. My coach Andy Kaasa, is also BVB’s Coach and Director of College Recruiting, and he provides so much help with the players, myself included, in any questions and support they need in the college process. I owe him a lot for the support and help. When joining back with BVB this year and starting with a completely new team, the process and growth we have made this year was amazing.
SW: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play at a high level what would it be?
SM: To have confidence in yourself and abilities. I’ve always struggled with this myself, and it can really affect your performance. If you don’t have confidence with yourself, you stop taking shots or risks in the game. If you play safe or scared to make a mistake, then ultimately you’re not playing your best game. Having confidence will get you far in life and on the soccer field.
SW: Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
SM: Andy Kaasa, my coach has helped me tremendously this year. I feel like I’ve grown as a player so much, I’ve never had a coach care so much for a team and their development. He is always there when I have questions or need help, and has taught me a lot about playing center forward since I’ve switched positions this year. With his help I’ve gained a lot of confidence this season, and I’m no longer afraid of making mistakes.
