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 Olivia Shaw, who plays club soccer in the ECNL for SUSA and has verbally committed to play NCAA Division I soccer for Stanford University in 2027.
SoccerWire Featured Player since April 2023.
What made you decide to verbally commit to Stanford?
I decided to verbally commit to Stanford because of the unparalleled combination of academics and athletics that they offer. There really is no comparison. Stanford has an incredible legacy in all sports, and especially for me, their women’s soccer program is historic. The coaching staff are not only incredibly talented and knowledgeable, but also such amazing people off the field. Winning a national championship is something that I strive for, and Stanford has consistently proven that they are able to do that. The amount of US pIayers Stanford has produced speaks for itself. Stanford University is one of the most prestigious academic universities in the country, and I am so honored to be able to attend such a competitive academic environment. I have such high respect for this team and the coaches, and I am so honored that I am able to a part of it.
What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
The recruiting process was exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Showcases really helped my confidence grow, and performing in front of hundreds of college coaches was both nerve racking and exciting. The recruiting process is different for everyone, and it’s so important to not compare yourself to anyone else. I learned that while the results of the game are important, they are not everything. I learned that your energy, your willingness to fight back, and your ability to lead, especially in the most crucial parts of the game, is what really matters. Never giving up shows your mental toughness, which is the difference between the top players and the average players. Performing in high pressure moments comes down to how much you believe in your ability, and I’ve learned that the more confident I am, the better I play.
How do you feel your strengths on the field will help the Cardinal?
I believe my biggest strengths are my speed, athleticism, back to goal play, and my unwavering determination. I love to win, and I will do whatever it takes to help my team succeed, whether it’s by scoring myself, delivering key assists, leading the press, or defending. I can finish in multiple different ways, and I think this will help me become a dangerous forward for the Cardinal in the ACC.
What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
My favorite subjects in school are english, business, and theology. I am an avid reader, and I enjoy debating. For this reason, I am considering becoming a business or pre-law major in college. Stanford has so many incredible majors, and I am excited to explore everything that Stanford has to offer.
What has your experience been like playing for SUSA in the ECNL?
SUSA has provided me the opportunity to play at a high level in front of hundreds of college coaches, which I am extremely grateful for. Playing alongside talented teammates has developed me into the player that I am today, and I am so thankful for all the support my team and coaches have given me. If you want to be the best, you have to play against the best, and playing in the ECNL has consistently improved my level of play, year after year.
What are your favorite pair of cleats that you have ever owned?
My favorite pair of cleats that I have owned are the Custom Nike Phantom Luna 2 Elite. They are bright pink, with pink laces and black graphics.
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 I would give to a younger player is to always bet on yourself. Soccer is a very subjective sport, so don’t let other peoples opinions discourage you. Show up every day and push yourself to be the best you can be. Block out the noise around you, and focus on your own journey. Never forget who you are inside, and always remember that you are playing for the little girl inside you, who fell in love with the game.
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 love to give a shoutout to my entire family. My sisters are my best friends, and have constantly encouraged and supported me no matter what. My parents have been my rock. They have sacrificed so much of their time to supporting my dreams, which I am so grateful for. They truly gave me the world, and I am so lucky to call them my parents. I would also like to thank my grandparents, for inspiring me on and off the field and pushing me to be a better person and player. Most of all, I am so grateful to God for giving me the gift of playing soccer and for guiding me in everything I do.
