11
Jul, 2022
The quartet of Margey Brown, Clare Nicholas, Tanji Sarver, and Ava Wood have spent a combined 41 years at Internationals Soccer Club. Their commitment and dedication have definitely paid off as all four are headed to major college programs in the fall.
Margey Brown has spent nine years with the club and has committed to Duquesne University. Brown was quick to point out the impact and influence that the ISC coaches have had on her career.
“The coaches at Internationals have guided me so much during my ISC journey, helping me to excel on and off the field,” Brown said. “They have taught me the importance of the little details, to always show respect, and to play for, off, and with my teammates. They have impacted me and taught me to be selfless, and that we are always playing for something bigger than ourselves.”
Clare Nicholas has committed to Saint Louis University after spending 10 years with ISC. She had many incredible memories from her time with the club, but was able to narrow it down to one special moment.
“My favorite club memory is the 2021 ECNL national playoffs,” Nicholas said. “I’ll never forget when we won the semifinal in PKs, and how we all piled on top of each other in excitement. It was such an incredible moment of pure joy with my teammates and coaches.”
Tanji Sarver is the longest tenured player of the group, spending 12 years with the club. She has committed to Cleveland State University. She was quick to offer advice for the younger players at the club.
“My best advice for the younger players is that it's all worth it,” Sarver said. “You will need to make many sacrifices along the way, but in the end, it all pays off. You will learn lessons that will help you grow not only as a soccer player but as a person too. Enjoy it all, soak it in, and don't take it for granted.”
Ava Wood will play for Denison University after spending 10 years with ISC. She spoke about everything she learned while at ISC.
“The coaches at Internationals have taught me numerous life lessons - one being respect,” Wood said. “Respect for coaches, teammates, the game, refs or making sure the bench is cleaner than when we arrived. I will take this lesson into the next four years of soccer, college life and beyond.”
ECNL and Club Director Keri Sarver spoke about the legacy these players are leaving behind at the club.
“These four seniors have left their mark on the club collectively and individually,” Sarver said. “They have grown up in the club together and are a shining example of what our long-term development model can do. On the field they have led the 2003 birthyear for a decade – helping the club to state championships, Super Y National Championships, ECNL conference championships, and appearances on the biggest stage in the ECNL Finals. Off the field they set the example through commitment, loyalty, consistency – all done with passion, love and respect. It has been an honor and pleasure to coach them and help guide them on their journey. I know they are prepared for the next step and we cannot wait to see what they accomplish next.”
Everyone in the ISC family is very excited about what comes next for these four standouts as they continue their academic and athletic careers at the next level. They lead a talented Class of 2022 that will join nearly 400 ISC alums that have played collegiate soccer.