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Kayla King, Goalkeeper, Excel Soccer Academy
Class: 2018
Commitment: Grand Canyon University
Kayla King won't have to travel too far next year when she takes her game to the college level.
"I committed to Grand Canyon University because it is the best education. Also, when I first walked on their campus, I felt like I was home away from home. The coaching staff is also very supportive and I'm excited to grow my personal and soccer career at GCU."
The goalkeeper from Excel Soccer Academy adds that she is, "looking forward to meeting new people and to grow my faith in Jesus."
King joined Excel Soccer Academy her freshman year of High School (Thunderbird) and credits the club for helping her find success.
"Excel helped me prepare due to their amazing trainings. My coach, Stryker Aguilar, has helped me tremendously with my development as a goalkeeper. I would not be where I am today without my coach and the coaching staff at Excel.
Hope Hisey, Goalkeeper, Tucson Soccer Academy
Class: 2019
Commitment: University of Arizona
Like her counterpart above, Tucson's Hope Hisey won't have to travel too far when she competes at the Divisions I level.
"Both my parents went to the University of Arizona. My father played baseball there under coach Jerry Kindall. After going on my unofficial visit, I absolutely fell in love with the school. I grew up in Tucson, but being on campus in that environment felt like I was in another world. I value education above everything else, so I loved what the school could offer me academically. The belief the coaches had in me was extremely encouraging as well. Coach Tony Amato and Coach Paul Nagy truly believe I have what it takes to be an important piece of their Division I program. Knowing the University of Arizona could offer me an incredible opportunity both on the field and in the classroom ultimately lead me to commit in the summer of 2016."
Since taking over as the head coach of the University of Arizona Women's Soccer Team in 2013, head coach Tony Amato has turned the program around. The Wildcats have made the NCAA Tournament in three of the past four seasons and recorded the programs second-best record of all-time in the 2015 season (14-6-2). These accomplishments have allowed Arizona to compete in high-profile matches, something Hisey is excited about.
"I’m most looking forward to competing in the PAC-12. I’m very excited to have the opportunity to play against the some of the greatest teams and players in the country during conference play. It’s been really fun to see Arizona fight these past few years to be the top non-California team in the conference, and I’m looking forward to being apart of that as well and keep competing for a PAC-12 title."
Hisey also attends Canyon Del Oro High School and added that TSA not only helped her prepare on the field but off the field as well.
"Tucson Soccer Academy truly has some of the best coaches in the Southwest. I would not be where I am today without every single one of my coaches: Dan Cartwright, Liza Frazier, Dave Cosgrove, and Todd and Amy Garelick. Without them constantly pushing me beyond my limits, I could not be sitting here today committed to a Division I university. These coaches not only push me on the field but off the field, they care about how I’m doing academically and make sure that my character is the best part of me, not just my soccer skills. I’ve also been blessed with the best teammates imaginable. Without them believing in me and pushing me to be my very best, I would not be prepared to take on what lies ahead of me."