For most students, high school marks the end of their competitive sporting career.
Only around 7% of high school athletes play a varsity sport in college. Furthermore, just a mere 1% of high school athletes end up playing Division 1 sports in college.
Reese Patrick defied the odds.
Patrick is a senior at GRC and played forward for the girls soccer team. She notched an impressive career, scoring 53 goals along with 23 assists.
This year marked the end of her high school career. Now she is on to bigger things.
This spring, Patrick will be enrolling at Eastern Kentucky University and joining the soccer program. She graduated from GRC in December to train with the team.
She recalls the moment she fell in love with the game.
“I played every sport I could, always looking for what truly excited me,” she said. “I started playing soccer at the age of three, and it quickly became the one I couldn’t get enough of. No matter what else I tried, nothing matched the joy I felt on the field. It’s been my passion ever since.”
Playing at GRC throughout her high school career, Patrick has created many memories with the team.
“My favorite memory would have to be winning the region championship on our home field,” said Patrick. “But honestly, it’s not just about one moment. I’m incredibly grateful for every chance I had to play
alongside my teammates. I loved every second of being part of such an amazing group. GRC has been such a big part of my life, and it’s hard to imagine not being surrounded by familiar faces. Those moments together are what I’ll miss the most.”
Patrick has made a massive impact on GRC, but it is time to take the next step. She is sad to say goodbye to her hometown.
“It’s definitely bittersweet,” said Patrick. “Growing up so fast and leaving everyone I know – my teammates, coaches, and friends – isn’t easy. It’s hard to say goodbye to the people and the place that has shaped me. But at the same time, I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to play the game I love and pursue my dreams.”
Patrick describes why EKU was the perfect fit.
“The team’s family dynamic, winning drive, and competitive spirit match exactly how I approach life and soccer,” said Patrick. “I want to be surrounded by people who push themselves and others to be the best, and that’s exactly what EKU’s program represents. Coach Cosinuke (Matt) is a great leader and coach. Finally, being close to family and friends was really important to me, and EKU allows me to stay connected to the people I care about.”
GRC Coach William Contreras added his thoughts about Patrick. He knows what kind of player she is.
“The thing that stands out most to me is her discipline on and off the field,” he said. “She wants to know what she can do to get better every day and she will do what it takes to accomplish it. Her work off the field is what makes her better on the field. She makes recovery and nutrition a major part of her discipline and that has made her a player who can be mentally and physically prepared for the game.”
Contreras describes Patrick as a stand-out person off the pitch.
“Reese is an example for anyone who has a goal for their life,” he said. “She has dedicated her life to perfecting her skill and her talent. I watched her practice with my son and encourage him to work hard for what he wants. When we hosted an activity for Clark County youth, she was helping younger players see how fun soccer is. She is an amazing example of a student athlete. She is one of three of my players who participated in GSP. She is putting her studies at the same level as her game.”
It has taken hard work and dedication from not only Patrick but everyone around her. She thanks everyone who has been there for her.
“I owe so much to the people who’ve supported me along the way,” said Patrick. “My coaches have always believed in me and guided me, answering all my questions and pushing to become the best version of myself. My parents have been my rock, cheering me on and encouraging me every time I needed it. And my teammates who have shown me what it means to be part of something bigger than just a game.”
