4 Questions - Emma Shields
March 20th 2020
For an award Emma received, I found this quote I was asked to put forward on her behalf. It still rings true as I write this, this morning.
"Emma is one of the finest youth players I have ever had the pleasure to work with in my all of my years as an educator. She will undoubtedly create moments in her career that surpass the youth years as a professional. Emma's technique, tactical awareness, physical approach and mental strength to the game are only matched by her love and desire for football itself. A player such a Emma is a warm, overwhelmingly welcome one of a kind enigma in the modern game".
Emma’s warmth carries off of the field. When she is in town she regularly comes into TTi to train. She doesn’t care what group, age or gender, she just wants to play. She’s as attentive to advice now as ever and she is far more equips to give it. Watching her selflessly exchange ideas with younger players is what TTi set about years ago.
Emma is also a part of Every Day Hero. A Not for profit charity that serves Ethiopian children. Emma journeys yearly to help and give. I am proud of her for this piece of personality and giving.
You can find out more here: http://ordinaryhero.org
Emma, amongst some others is a true Bluebonnet. One of the elite.
I still look forward to the day I see her in the Canada Red, playing in the FIFA World Cup.
1. What is the biggest lesson you have learnt playing college soccer?
I feel like answering just one of the biggest things I’ve learned so far in college soccer wouldn’t be right because I’ve learned so much so I’m going to share two of my biggest things...because they really have been so vital in my college process so far. My first one would be that I’ve learned to realize and always remember that “I’m here for a reason”, meaning that in the challenges I face: whether that’s making a bad pass, missing the net, getting yelled at, the tiredness, losing a big game, and so many other things... “I’m here for a reason”.
I remember how hard I worked to get here and all the choices I made for countless years to experience this and play the game and I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t deserve it. The second thing would be, how important forming solid relationships with your team, staff, and support staff are. College soccer is not easy, but having the support from your teammates (who become your best friends), your coaches, and so many people that work within the team has changed my game. Not only am I happy outside of soccer, but I’m so happy on the field and that allows me to focus on playing and it’s allowing me to play even better.
2. You're a Canadian National, are we going to see you anytime soon in a Red Maple Leaf Shirt?
I’ve always been working towards the goal of playing college soccer and also getting the chance to represent Canada. I’m working hard and pushing myself on the field to try to get Canada’s attention and get my call up!
3. You've played for the TTi Bluebonnets for three summers, collecting three league championships - what are your reflections on summer soccer?
The Bluebonnets and TTi in general helped my development as a whole and gave me so many opportunities. Getting the chance to play soccer for the Bluebonnets was the biggest blessing, especially the first 2 years as I was in high school and hadn’t started playing college soccer. It gave me a different look at speed of play, aggressiveness, fitness level, commitment level, and so much more. It allowed me to adapt quickly to the college speed my freshman year, which also allowed me to be a freshman starter. It was an environment where I got to really just let go and play. I tried new things and did things I never thought I really was capable of and that was really cool because it skyrocketed my inner confidence on the ball. The Bluebonnets hold a special place in my heart, especially because of the people I got to meet, play with, and gave me role models I still look up too.
4. Where does your career path go after college?
My career after college will hopefully consist of a professional contract and becoming a lawyer. I would love to hopefully play a few professional seasons where ever I can and then go to law school to become a lawyer and possibly then work in politics!