McKenzie Meehan shoots for ever higher goals
Sports have played an integral part in my life. As a child, I loved playing outside with my sister, parents and cousins. I became involved in recreational sports at a young age, participating on soccer, basketball, softball and track teams. As my passion for athletics continued to grow, I began to play sports more competitively. My participation level in sports gradually increased until I joined Scorpions Soccer Club, a competitive club team, which required a great time commitment. When I joined this team, I could no longer play basketball, but it was a sacrifice I was willing to make. I did not view the time commitment as a burden; I instead enjoyed every moment of my athletic career and viewed each higher level as a challenge.
A few months ago, after graduating from LaSalle Academy in June, I began playing with the Boston College Women’s Soccer Team on August 1, the official start of our season. With this, like any transition to a higher level, certain challenges presented themselves, but I felt prepared. Because the college players are more skilled and experienced, the game is played at a higher pace. In addition, players are generally stronger and quicker than those in high school. Each game is more competitive and demanding, especially within the Atlantic Coast Conference. It took time to become accustomed to these differences. The season went very well. I gradually became more comfortable playing with my new team. We had highlights to our season, including our tie against Stanford, last year’s National Champion, and our win against Florida State, the #1 ranked team at the time, but unfortunately, we lost in the second round of the NCAA tournament. Nevertheless, I gained great experience this year and I’m already looking forward to next season.
Overall, I strongly believe that sports are essential to a girl’s life. Females are fortunate that society has progressed so much that we have a plethora of options for organized youth sports. Although not everyone possesses equal experience or skill, there are numerous levels of sports, such as recreation, club and high school teams, providing everyone with an option. Throughout my time in sports, I have realized that being part of a team is like being part of a family because every player wants to do her best so the team succeeds. This sense of belonging is wonderful, as are the valuable friendships that develop from being teammates.
Being part of a team is one of the best ways to learn important values such as teamwork, hard work, commitment, sacrifice and time management, essential characteristics of a successful person. Obviously, sports are also a great way to be active, and they should be enjoyed. The exercise does not seem nearly as demanding when you are enjoying your teammates’ company. Regardless of age, athleticism, background, or any other aspect, every young girl should incorporate sports into their lives, even if it is just playing in the backyard with friends.
McKenzie Meehan is a graduate of LaSalle Academy. She was named All American in track where LaSalle 4×800 meter relay team won New England Championship and finished with the silver medal in US National Championships. She was 1000 meter State Champion and won numerous All State track awards. As a senior in high school, she led the nation in scoring with 80 goals. She holds Rhode Island State record for goals scored in a high school career with 180. She was a 3 time soccer All State, a two time All American and 2 time Gatorade Player of the Year. Meehan participated with the Scorpions Soccer Club, at the United States Youth Soccer Association National Championships. She was awarded the Golden Ball Award as tournament MVP.
She studies in the Boston College Honors Program. Meehan trains with the soccer team: named to the All-ACC Freshman team; Topdrawersoccer.com All Freshman Second Team; third on the team in scoring with nine goals and 18 points; tallied two goals in three games (UConn, Clemson, NC State); scored two goals, including the game-winner in the victory over UConn on August 24; earned the NE Soccer Player of the Week and a spot on the CS360 Primetime Performer’s List; scored her first career goal in season-opener vs. Providence; had a goal vs. Clemson and Northeastern; played in every game, started six games; and played a career-high 86 minutes in the NCAA Tournament game against Penn State.
photo courtesy of McKenzie Meehan (#22)
