I have the soul of an athlete. It wasn’t until my freshman year of high school that I lived and breathed soccer. It was my identity, my sense of belonging. Then I tried out for the high school team as a freshman…and I didn’t make it. I was devastated. I kept thinking, “Will I ever play again? Will I ever get my identity back as an athlete?” Through guidance and support from family, friends, and mental health experts I was able to survive high school and make my way back to soccer as a college athlete. It was a long and tedious road but I got there. I understand what it is like to struggle as an athlete both personally and professionally.