Sienna Parsons
Sienna Parsons is a 17-year-old senior at Strawberry Crest where she plays on the girl’s soccer team as well as being on the club team, the West Florida Flames.
When did you first start playing soccer?
I started playing soccer recreationally in fourth grade after leaving competitive gymnastics.
Who has been the most influential person in your soccer career?
The most influential person is my high school coach, Sean Woodhouse, after he passed me over for the Strawberry Crest goalkeeper position my freshman year. It pushed me to work harder and prove to everyone, despite my height I am a force to be reckoned with.
Do you have a pre-game ritual or superstition?
As a pregame ritual I listen to Christian Hip Hop music and I have the boy’s soccer team or my coach take hard shots on goal to warm me up and motivate me to not give up even when things get hard.
How do you manage to balance your personal life and playing soccer?
My closest friends are on the soccer team with me, so we hang out on and off the field. Also, my family is very important to me as we spend a lot of time together. Therefore, I take any spare time at school to complete my homework and any leftover assignments I prioritize completing as soon as I get home. I try to get this all done before I go to my club soccer practice twice a week.
What do you believe is your greatest strength on the field?
My greatest strength is communication, which is the key to playing in the goalkeeper position. I am able to see the entire field and I make sure my teammates know what’s around them and what’s available to them.
Are there areas of your game that you’re currently working on improving?
As a goalkeeper, height is always a consideration. I am not the tallest person, so I constantly train in speed, agility, and my vertical jump.
Are there any rules in soccer that you would change if allowed?
There are no rules in soccer that I would change. I love the sport the way it is, and I wouldn’t want to change a thing.
What are your top songs to get you hyped before a game?
My top song to get me hyped before a game is “You Can’t Stop Me” by Andy Mineo.
What advice would you give to younger players wanting to better themselves in soccer?
No matter your weakness, if you work hard anything is achievable. In our family we always say Tom Brady’s quote, “To be successful at anything, the truth is you don’t have to be special. You just have to be what most people aren’t: consistent, determined, and willing to work for it.” You should never give up and take all feedback given to you as a motivator for you to become the best you can be.
What’s your expectation for the Chargers soccer team this upcoming season?
My expectation is for my team to come together and have a successful season just as we did last year. Go Lady Chargers!!