NAOTB: Grace Ivey

Each week, McKinzie Green of 12thMan.com checks in with a newcomer on the Texas A&M soccer team.

This week Green chats with Grace Ivey, who arrived in Aggieland as a two-time Gatorade Florida High School Player of the Year.

At what point in the recruiting process did you decide to come to Texas A&M?

It was the summer before my junior year. I had taken all my visits, and my visit here was the one that stood out the most to me and I knew it was the place I wanted to be.

How different is the speed of play in college compared to high school? 

The speed of play is much faster in college. It’s definitely taking a big adjustment to get used to it. 

How was it playing in front of the 12th Man for the first time?

It was a dream come true. I wanted to play soccer in college ever since I knew that was an option for me. It was just so special to put on that jersey for the first time and get on the field. 

What’s been the hardest transition from high school to college?

Being away from my family because I’m from Florida. We’re pretty far away from my family and it’s been kind of hard not being able to see them all the time.

What do you think are your best soccer attributes?

My passing accuracy is one of the biggest things for me. Being able to make dangerous passes out of the midfield.

What are your earliest memories of playing soccer?

I started playing when I was about four. My dad has always played soccer growing up and he’s also a soccer coach. So, he kind of put me into it and I just fell in love with the game. Soccer has been there my whole life.

What did you like about Texas A&M on your visit?

It was like nothing I had seen before. The culture here is just incredible and the people I met here were so special. I felt like I really bonded with the class that I was coming in with and the players that I took my visit with. I’m just really excited for the next four years with them. 

What’s your favorite thing about being in Aggieland so far?

My favorite thing is, again, probably the people. It’s just been so cool getting to live with these amazing people.

When did you realize soccer was something that you wanted to do long term?

I wouldn’t say that there was a specific moment. I’ve just kind of always knew it was going to be a part of my life. I can’t imagine my life without soccer.

What have the coaches been working on with you for your own player development?

They’ve been working with me on my confidence and trying to find my role on this team. They’re getting me more comfortable for this high level of play and more comfortable around my teammates as well.

Who would you say is your biggest soccer inspiration?

I would have to say my biggest soccer inspiration is Rose Lavelle. Ever since I saw her play for the first time on the national team, I was like, wow, this girl is someone who I really would love to play like. She’s so crafty on the ball and she’s very smart and I just really aspire to play like that. 

How did it feel to record your first career points and assists against Grambling State? 

It was amazing, I was just so excited. It was definitely a dream come true.