The world of high school soccer is a vibrant arena where young athletes not only showcase their physical prowess but also develop crucial life skills that transcend the boundaries of the sport. Particularly noteworthy is the realm of defensive play, where young talents hone their tactical acumen and physical capabilities. This article aims to shine a spotlight on some of the top female defensive soccer talents across various high schools. These athletes, through their dedication and skill, are redefining the defensive roles in the game, proving that a good defense is as crucial as a potent offense.

These young women are not just soccer players; they are students, community members, and aspiring professionals. Their journey in high school soccer is more than a story of athletic achievement; it's about balancing rigorous academic schedules, participating in community service, and nurturing personal growth. Their commitment to excellence in all these areas is a testament to their character and determination.

In profiling these athletes, we delve into the lives of individuals who are setting new standards in women's soccer. From Brooke Shefsky in Naples, Florida, to Regan Willauer in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, each player brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the field. Their stories are diverse, but they share a common thread: a relentless pursuit of excellence, a deep love for the game, and a recognition of the broader implications of their sporting journey.

As we explore their achievements, challenges, and aspirations, we get a glimpse into the future of women's soccer. These athletes embody the potential for greatness that lies within high school sports. They remind us that the journey of a high school athlete is about more than just winning games; it's about building a foundation for success in all areas of life. This article is not just a celebration of their current accomplishments but also an anticipation of the remarkable impact they are poised to make in the world of soccer and beyond.

These athletes will also be competing for an opportunity to be selected to the EXACT 11, a selection of the top players across the country who received the highest rankings from EXACT's national network of college coaches at the National Showcase Camp. The EXACT 11 will have an opportunity to travel abroad this winter, competing with some of the top talent in the world in Europe. 

Emma Payne

2028 | Buffalo, NY | Forward

Emma Payne's early start in soccer with WNY Flash has paved the way for her emergence as a formidable force in the defensive lineup. As an eighth-grader, she was already playing on the Clarence High School varsity soccer team, demonstrating her advanced skills and tactical understanding. Her team's success in NYS Section 6 and participation in the ECNL National Playoffs in 2023 further attest to her defensive capabilities.

Emma Payne's early start in soccer with WNY Flash has paved the way for her emergence as a formidable force in the defensive lineup. As an eighth-grader, she was already playing on the Clarence High School varsity soccer team, demonstrating her advanced skills and tactical understanding. Her team's success in NYS Section 6 and participation in the ECNL National Playoffs in 2023 further attest to her defensive capabilities.

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SARAH HELDEROP

2026 | Mandan, ND | Winger

Sarah Helderop, balancing soccer with varsity basketball, stands out for her defensive skills. Her selection for the AC Milan Junior Academy and performance at the Club, ODP, and High School levels are testaments to her abilities. As a freshman, she was a varsity starter on her high school team, showcasing her defensive strengths and leadership qualities.

Sarah Helderop, balancing soccer with varsity basketball, stands out for her defensive skills. Her selection for the AC Milan Junior Academy and performance at the Club, ODP, and High School levels are testaments to her abilities. As a freshman, she was a varsity starter on her high school team, showcasing her defensive strengths and leadership qualities.

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FRANCES POULOS

2025 | Libertyville, IL | Midfielder

Frances Poulos, a midfielder for Libertyville FC 1974 and Vernon Hills High School, has displayed exceptional defensive skills. Besides soccer, her involvement in varsity basketball and the school's wind ensemble showcases her versatility. Her selection for All-Conference and All-Sectional HM, along with her participation in the USYS National Championship, highlights her defensive aptitude.

Frances Poulos, a midfielder for Libertyville FC 1974 and Vernon Hills High School, has displayed exceptional defensive skills. Besides soccer, her involvement in varsity basketball and the school's wind ensemble showcases her versatility. Her selection for All-Conference and All-Sectional HM, along with her participation in the USYS National Championship, highlights her defensive aptitude.

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REGAN WILLAUER

2025 | Palm Harbor, FL | Midfielder

Playing as a midfielder for NCFC and Seaforth High School, Regan Willauer has demonstrated significant defensive skills. Her leadership as a goal scorer for her club team and her contribution to her high school team's success in the state playoffs emphasize her defensive abilities. Regan's ambition to play at a D1 school aligns with her sporting trajectory.

Playing as a midfielder for NCFC and Seaforth High School, Regan Willauer has demonstrated significant defensive skills. Her leadership as a goal scorer for her club team and her contribution to her high school team's success in the state playoffs emphasize her defensive abilities. Regan's ambition to play at a D1 school aligns with her sporting trajectory.

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BROOKE SHEFSKY

2028 | Naples, FL | Forward 

Brooke Shefsky, a standout athlete in soccer, softball, and cross country, has shown exceptional defensive skills on the soccer field. Playing for Florida West FC and her varsity team, she has emerged as a top scorer and a vital part of the defense. Brooke's participation in the New Jersey & Florida ODP state teams underlines her defensive prowess and potential.

Brooke Shefsky, a standout athlete in soccer, softball, and cross country, has shown exceptional defensive skills on the soccer field. Playing for Florida West FC and her varsity team, she has emerged as a top scorer and a vital part of the defense. Brooke's participation in the New Jersey & Florida ODP state teams underlines her defensive prowess and potential.

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The Spirit of the Sport

These young athletes, with their remarkable defensive skills and commendable off-field achievements, are indeed shaping the future of women's soccer. Each one of them, from Brooke Shefsky's tactical intelligence to Regan Willauer's leadership qualities, brings a unique strength to the sport, reinforcing the idea that soccer is more than just a game. It's a platform for holistic development, where physical prowess meets mental acuity, and personal growth intertwines with team success.

As these athletes mature and refine their skills, they are not just preparing to take the next step in their soccer careers. They are gearing up to be influential figures in the soccer world. Their potential extends beyond just being standout defenders; they are future leaders, role models, and perhaps, pioneers who could inspire the next generation of women in sports.

Their impact is not confined to the boundaries of the soccer field. These young women are setting an example for how sports can be a powerful catalyst for personal development and social change. As they move forward, whether they continue in sports, academia, or other fields, their journey in high school soccer will always be a foundational chapter in their story – one that showcases the power of dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

In conclusion, these athletes are the embodiment of the spirit of the sport and its ability to shape young lives. Their journey is a testament to the incredible potential that lies within the realms of high school sports – a potential to not only excel in the game but to also inspire, lead, and make a lasting impact in the world.

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