Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Rachel Paule

Rachel Paule is a sophomore on the Riverview High girls soccer team. Paule had a hat trick and three assists in the Rams' 9-0 home win over Manatee High on Tuesday. 

When did you start playing soccer?

I started about five years ago with FC Sarasota. Since then I have developed a lot. I now play at Tampa Bay United SC. But I started because of (U.S. Women's National Team player) Alex Morgan. I saw her play once and thought, 'I bet I can do that too.' 

What is the appeal to you?

Soccer helps you develop as a person as well as a player. You learn things that are going to help you (in life). You develop your own characteristics and personality. 

What is your best skill?

I think it is how hard I work. I want to be better. I want everyone to be better. I think I'm great at pushing my teammates to do that. 

What have you been working to improve?

Definitely my skill moves, so I can beat defenders. Improving those will allow me to contribute more to my team. But really, everything. Whatever my coach asks me to do, I have to be able to do it. 

What are your goals for this season?

Personally, a goal is to improve my confidence to take longer shots and use my skills. 

What is your favorite food?

I love pasta, any kind. 

What is your favorite movie?

I love the 'Harry Potter' movies. I could watch them any day, any time. 

What is your favorite subject in school?

Definitely math this year. At the beginning of the year I did not like math but my teacher (Kristina Dugan Weccele) has helped me and my class see how math can help us in our daily lives. 

Which superpower would you pick?

Invisibility. I think it would help me score more goals. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Don't focus on the past. Look to the future. That's what you can change and improve. You can't correct the past. 

Finish this sentence: "Rachel Paule is …"

Loud. Sometimes on the field I forget how loud I can be. But I'm just trying to communicate.