Sage Stovall, a sophomore, is an outstanding soccer player at Shadow Ridge High School and on her club team. She plays on defense as a center back for both teams. Stovall is extremely strong and resilient on the field, and never gives up on a play.
Stovall started playing soccer at 8 years old, when she had to quit BMX. Some of her neighborhood friends played soccer and had her come try out for their team. She ended up loving soccer and has played the sport ever since.
Some of the biggest tournaments Stovall has played in are Mayor’s cup and a GA showcase. The Mayor’s cup is held here in Las Vegas, and it is a pretty big tournament because the top teams from many different states travel in to compete with each other. On her old club, Stovall was given the chance to play internationally, where only the top players of each team come out to show their skills.
Stovall loves many things about soccer, but her favorite part is the people she plays with.
“I love my coaches and teammates because they are people who push me to my limits, and they make me a better player,” Stovall explains.
Some of the highlights of Stovall’s career include becoming captain of her club team and being awarded Defensive Player of the Year as a freshman for high school in the 2023-2024 season. Another highlight that Stovall is grateful for is that she can travel to higher level showcases for her club team.
Stovall decided to play high school soccer because of the experience and so that she can get more touches on the ball. However, she values club soccer more because it’s very important and competitive. She has also learned many lessons from playing the sport.
“What I have learned from high school and club soccer is to always work hard no matter the situation you are in, to not take anything for granted, and to just have fun,” Stovall comments.
At first high school soccer was a little stressful because she was playing with girls she didn’t really know, which can make the game slightly harder. Even with that challenge, Stovall managed to play on both her high school and club soccer teams with little difficulty.
After high school, she is undecided as to what she would like to do. Stovall wants to play soccer, but she also wants to focus on her future. Her biggest supporters are her family, which include her mom, dad, and older brother. They always show up to every game, no matter the time or place. She knows that her parents have put in the time, effort, and love to help her become better, and she is forever grateful to them.
Stovall doesn’t have a specific role model on her teams because she feels that each person has something special about them, and they each have their own different skills. She also enjoys learning from each of her teammates.
Stovall’s mom, Janell Stovall, says, “Sage is a phenomenal soccer player to watch in the defender position. Not only does her physical aspect play a role in the game, she as a center back is always analyzing what her next moves will be before she applies them. Her capabilities are tremendously counted on by her teammates and she is always determined to never let her team down.”
