Hokie ClubFor Taylor Price, receiving the call to play at the U19/U18 Women's Youth National Camp for the USA was nothing short of a dream come true.
"It was an unreal experience," Price said. "Every little girl dreams of playing at the youth national team and later the national team. To actually make it there with some of the best players in the country, especially after the year I had at Tech, just made me feel like my work paid off."
Price's passion for the game began age 4. From 8 to 18, she played with the same club team. When it came time to consider college, Price knew that Tech was her dream school. The campus and coaching staff, with whom she was well acquainted after numerous recruiting camp visits, made her feel at home.
Heading into her freshman year, Price knew that she was joining a talented team and that their ACC competition would be intense. She met the demanding training head-on with a willingness to work hard and be coachable. Learning from the coaches and her more experienced teammates, while focusing on physical and mental strength, helped set the stage for a big season.
"I think we're known to be one of the grittiest teams in the ACC. The work that we put in on and off the field last year allowed us to win a lot of games."
In her freshman campaign, Price tallied eight goals in total, the most on the team, along with three assists. She scored the game-winning goal against No. 22 NC State, a moment she feels particularly proud of, while the at-home win against No. 3 UNC stood out to Price as the team's season highlight.
Team culture and camaraderie played a major role in their on-field success.
"We just absolutely love each other on and off the field. I have 34 best friends, and I have these teammates that I know would do anything for me. It carries on to the field because we hold each other accountable."
It was on the heels of this exciting first season that Price was chosen to represent the USA at the prestigious Women's Youth National camp. The week-long program was an opportunity to learn different playing styles from new coaches. Price identified areas for improvement from her video footage, experimented with new formations and competed against some of the best players in the country.
Now entering the 2023 season, Price can apply her learnings. She aims to have an even greater impact on her team this year with more goals and assists. She also plans to take on a leadership role.
"We have a lot of young talent, a lot of really good freshmen coming in. I want to help them, coach them and be a leader that makes an impact. That's my goal."
Writing HERstory Campaign
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Gallery: (8-18-2023) WSOC: Taylor Price