Eastern Michigan University junior Rachael Rye knew she was a good soccer goalie since the sixth grade.
Unlike some of the other girls, Rye was not afraid of the ball and she loved the adrenaline rush she got while playing.
“I started playing soccer when I was six,” Rye said. “I wanted to play because I was a tomboy and wanted to be like my brothers, so I was open to try any sports.”
Rye was a four-year varsity letter winner at Edsel Ford High School and was named Best Defender all four years, including league MVP her senior year.
Her biggest accomplishment while in high school was making the All-State team.
While looking for colleges, Rye also considered Central Michigan and Saginaw Valley State universities, but eventually decided on EMU because when she visited the campus, it felt right and she really liked the team.
“I love soccer because it is a team sport and I love playing with my friends,” Rye said. “My favorite part of the team is how close we all become, and all the goofy things we do together that most people would find weird but we just feel are normal soccer girl problems.”
Last season, Rye started in two games, posted a 0-1-1 record and made 14 saves. She posted 2.70 goals on average during the season.
“Since I have been here I feel I have improved in many ways,” Rye said. “Before coming here I never really weightlifted, but here we have weightlifting and it has helped me become stronger. Also, I feel I have improved when dealing with crosses and high balls.
Being a shorter goalie, they have never been my favorite but I now feel more comfortable with them.”
Rye said after she fell in love with soccer, she knew that she wanted to play on a Division 1 team in college.
“Being able to play is such an amazing feeling, because I know not many people get the opportunity to play [Division 1],” Rye said.
When Rye isn’t on the soccer field, you can most likely find her baking desserts. She loves sweets and dreams of owning her own bakery someday.
Rye said she also loves talking in a British accent whenever she is with her roommates.