Newton County’s Olivia Clark didn’t have to think very hard about where she wanted to play college soccer.
Clark recently signed to play at East Central Community College, signing with coach Ryan Joiner.
Clark said East Central was an easy choice even though she had interest from Holmes, Meridian and Hinds.
“It feels like home and it’s right across the street,” Clark said. “I’m really close to the coach and he really influenced my decision. He coached me for a little while and was a goal keeper as well. “I’ve always wanted to play in college. I’d like to play two years at East Central and them maybe go to a four-year school.”
Clark has helped Newton County to a 9-5 record this season and posted seven shutouts this season.
Newton County coach Zak Foreman had nothing but praise for his senior goal keeper.
“Thankfully, I have been able to coach her for six years now as a goalkeeper,” She is a great shot blocker and a great distributor, a good leader, willing to communicate and not afraid of the moment. You can go from top to bottom and she is successful in every aspect.”
Clark said she has played travel soccer since she was 7 and has always been a goal keeper. Foreman said Clark has grown in every aspect of the game.
“Her first year, she didn’t focus on goalkeeping,” Foreman said. “It was some time after her eighth grade year she started to focus on goal keeping. Her goal was to become the starting goal keeper and from that moment, all she has done is grow. Again, really and truthfully, she has grown in all aspects of the game.”
Foreman said Clark has taken on the role of being more of a team leader this year.
“This year, it’s really her leadership that stands out,” Foreman said. “In the past, she has been a great goal keeper but she is having to learn how to be a leader and direct everything from the back. This year, she has been successful with that this year.”
