Today we welcome American footballer Gabby Sylstra, to SQD. Gabby is a footballer from the United States, who currently plays for Old Dominion University, a NCAA Division I member within the Sun Belt Conference. We asked her a couple of questions to get to know her a little better and here's what .she had to say:
When did you start playing soccer?
I started playing soccer when I was 3 years old.
At what moment did you realize that you loved the sport?
I realized I loved the sport when I was 6, I started to get really good and I realized that I was happier when I had a ball at my feet.
When did you start playing soccer?
I started playing soccer when I was 3 years old.
At what moment did you realize that you loved the sport?
I realized I loved the sport when I was 6, I started to get really good and I realized that I was happier when I had a ball at my feet.
What inspired you to follow a career in football?
The joy of playing and watching the game. I embraced my talent and continue to want to get better and succeed with this sport.
Left footed or right?
Right, but I’m good with both.
What's your favorite position?
Attacking CM (10)
Attacking CM (10)
Do you have a favorite team?
Manchester City
Do you have a favorite player?
Kevin De Bruyne
What was the first soccer move you learned?
The first move I learned was the chop/fake shot. I only remember this because my coach made us yell "hiyah" to get that chop down.
What's your favorite soccer move to perform?
The inside outside/the Matthews
Who is your role model in life?
My parents are my role models in life. They always support me and have helped me succeed through out my life. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
What made you decide to play for ODU? Did you have other offers?
The environment and the values here at ODU are what made me pick them. I did have other offers, but ODU just seemed like the place where I would be able to thrive.
I did have other offers, but ODU just seemed like the place where I would be able to thrive.
What's a typical training day like for you?
A typical training day varies but there’s always light footwork, a lot of technical/passing drills, speed and agility or conditioning work, and then we scrimmage.
What's your favorite cheat meal?
My favorite cheat meal is probably cheesecake.
How would you describe your style outside of football?
My style is mostly athletic or casual.
If there's a chance for you to play professionally where would it be? Which club and/or which country?
If I could play professionally I would like to play for NY/NJ Gotham FC in the US, but I would love to play in England
What is your most memorable moment in football? (Personal moment and non-personal)
Most memorable moments would have to be Messi winning a World Cup, and when my team and I won the SBC tournament and went through to the NCAA College Cup tournament.
Most memorable moments would have to be Messi winning a World Cup, and when my team and I won the SBC tournament and went through to the NCAA College Cup tournament.
What else do you do outside of football?
I paint, read, spend time with friends and family
What would you tell younger kids who are trying to get into football?
Don’t overthink it and keep it fun, the game is meant to be enjoyed.
Would you like to know more about Gabby, and to support her journey? Make sure to leave a comment below.