In a recent signing ceremony at Pulaski County High School, a current senior made her college choice official. PCHS soccer player Kirsten Woodyard will be continuing her education and soccer career at Bluefield State University in Bluefield, West Virginia.
The Bluefield State University “Big Blue” women’s soccer team is led by Head Coach Scott Forster. Their 2023 season record wasn’t what they were hoping for, finishing with a final of 5-12-1 playing against some tough competition, but with a strong incoming freshman class and only three senior lost to graduation, expectations are high for better results in 2024. The school is a part of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, and host teams such as Bowie State, Claflin University, Elizabeth City State, Fayetteville State, Johnson C. Smith University, Lincoln University, Livingsone College, Shaw University, Saint Augustine’s University, Virginia State, Virginia Union, and Winston-Salem State.
Woodyard signed her official Letter of Intent with friends, family, coaches, and teammates in attendance. The daughter of Nikki and Jason Woodyard of Pulaski, Kirsten has been playing soccer almost her entire life.
“I’ve been playing since I was four years old,” Woodyard said. “I love the fast-paced environment, along with the leadership and communication skills that I’ve gained from it. I’ve enjoyed soccer at every level, and I’ve really enjoyed seeing the places that I’ve traveled, especially in club soccer. Those have been some great opportumities.”
With an impressive 4.0 grade point average, Woodyard looked at several schools before making her decision.
“I’m going to be majoring in Radiology and Sonography, with the goal of graduating with a dual bachelor degree in each,” she said. “I looked at many schools, mainly at the D2 level, because I felt the. Most comfortable in that environment. I chose Bluefield State University because of the home feeling of the school and campus. I also picked them because of the teams on and off the field chemistry, skill, and respect they have for each other and the coaching staff. It was nothing but amazing.”
When asked about her favorite classes in high school and what some of her favorite memories have been to this point, Woodyard had an answer ready.
“Honestly any science class that I’ve ever taken, because I’ve always had a goal of getting into the medical field,” she said. “As for favorite memories so far, there are a ton. The traveling, especially the long-distance trips with the girls after a hard day at school, was almost like an escape from everything for a while. The good vibes, blasting music, and all of us laughing and giggling on those days always got us both happy and ready for games.”
Woodyard said there have been a lot of people who have helped influence her in life to this point.
“My parents are a big part of my life,” she said. “My coaches at every level … like Adam Richie, Gary Blankenship, Pip Patterson, and Joe Davis … have obviously helped me get where I am. I could name a bunch of my close friends, along with my high school coaches and teammates. It’s like we’ve all grown up together.”
What advice does a future college level soccer player have for the next young lady who might want to play at the high school or college level?
“Never give up in whatever you put your mind to,” she said. “No matter the difficulties and challenges that are thrown your way during the process, and that’s goes for school or soccer. Whether it’s the harder class or a new sill set that you’re trying to perfect or learn, always keep pushing. Keep your head up and have a strong mindset, because whatever struggles you’re dealing with now, they will always pass and you’ll come out stronger for it in the end.”