PLAYER SPOTLIGHT: OLIVIA GARD

Love of the Game. Pride in the Journey.

From watching her older brother shine on the pitch to becoming a leader on her own team, Olivia Gard’s love for soccer has only deepened with time. What began as admiration turned into dedication, fueled by friendships, personal growth, and the desire to continually improve.

“Moving up from Burgundy to Select was a huge moment for me,” Olivia shared. “It showed I had potential and motivated me to keep working hard.”

What Olivia loves most about soccer isn’t just the game—it’s the sisterly bonds she’s formed with her teammates.

“The game wouldn’t be the same without those connections. They make our team better on and off the field.”

She finds soccer uniquely rewarding because it blends teamwork with individual grit. It’s a sport that demands both trust in your teammates and personal drive to be your best. Olivia’s self-motivation is clear: “If you don’t put in the work, the only person you’re cheating is yourself.”

Inspired by her high school teammates—many of whom are heading to college programs—and her brother, who taught her the power of confidence, Olivia models commitment and leadership. This season, her hard work is showing up in a big way.

“The highlight of my season has been scoring more goals than last year. It reflects how much I’ve grown in confidence and as a player.”

Her team recently finished first in their league, overcoming early struggles with intensity and consistency. A pivotal win over South High—who had beaten them earlier in the season—marked a turning point.

“That game showed us what we were capable of and gave us the confidence to keep pushing forward.”

As the team eyes Regionals—and beyond—Olivia is focused on staying sharp, embracing her leadership role, and striving for continued success.

“Our goals are to keep scoring, limit goals conceded, and maintain our strong team camaraderie and communication. And, of course, to win Regionals and go on to Nationals.”

Balancing school, soccer, and personal life is no easy task, but Olivia stays ahead by managing her time and making the most of her moments with friends and teammates. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and pride in the journey, and we can’t wait to see where it leads next.

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT: SADIE CORBETT

Love of the Game: A Player’s Journey Fueled by Passion and Purpose

From backyard kicks with her dad to chasing a spot in the ECNL-RL regionals, this Rapids player’s love for the game runs deep—and shows no signs of slowing down.

“My dad’s passion for soccer was what first got me into the game,” she said. “From the beginning, I felt something that no other sport gave me. Over the years, that spark has grown into something powerful—almost addictive.”

That passion crystallized on May 8, 2022, when she and her teammates lifted the Presidents Cup trophy. But it wasn’t just about the title.

“It was about everything that led to that moment—sacrifice, commitment, and sharing the field with my best friends. That win meant the world to me.”

Throughout her career, soccer has become more than a sport—it’s become a second family. Whether it’s the thrill of game day, the bonds formed in the locker room, or the fire of pushing through a tough stretch, the game has shaped her character and connected her to a larger community.

“What I love most about being on a team is the competition and the connection. You fight alongside teammates who want the same things you do. It creates a bond that lasts well beyond the final whistle.”

From Frustration to Focus: The Season So Far

This season, her team has had plenty to celebrate—including clinching a spot at ECNL-RL Regionals. But the road wasn’t always smooth.

“There were games where we didn’t perform to our potential and nearly jeopardized our place in the standings,” she said. “But we bounced back and delivered when it mattered most.”

The defining moment of the campaign? A hard-fought, emotional final match that clinched their spot in the postseason.

“We knew we couldn’t drop points. The energy, the vulnerability, the goals—it all came together. It was our moment.”

Still, the season hasn’t come without challenges. Internal criticism and pressure created tension early on, but the team rallied through honest conversations and a shared desire to grow.

“We realized we all wanted the same thing—and that connection helped us move forward stronger.”

Confidence, Growth, and Looking Ahead

This season has marked a turning point not just for the team, but for her individual growth. Once hesitant to take risks, she now plays with purpose and freedom.

“My style completely changed. I’m more confident with the ball, more vocal, and more willing to step into a leadership role.”

She draws inspiration from Neymar Jr., modeling his flair and confidence in her own game, always looking to try something bold—even if it doesn’t always come off.

As the team gears up for Regionals, her focus is clear: fitness, stamina, and sustained performance. She wants to be a difference-maker from kickoff to the final whistle.

“I want to be able to contribute in the most intense moments, even in the last minutes of a game. That’s where matches are won.”

Balancing Life and the Game

Balancing soccer, school, and life off the field hasn’t been easy—but she’s learned to make it work.

“I use my time wisely. Soccer is a reward for getting through the school day, and I make sure to carve out time for friends and family. It’s all about giving my best effort in every area.”

Eyes on the Prize

As Regionals approach, her goals are set.

“We want to push ourselves harder than ever in training. And once we get there, it’s about focus—one game at a time. I want to go deeper than last year and leave a bigger mark.”

Her journey is the kind that defines the Rapids experience—rooted in passion, lifted by resilience, and driven by the unshakable love of the game.