East County Athlete of the Week: Rylee O'Shea

Rylee O'Shea is a junior on the Lakewood Ranch High girls soccer team. O'Shea had a goal and four assists in the Mustangs' 6-1 win over Venice High on Dec. 15. The win gave Lakewood Ranch an 8-0-1 record. 

When did you start playing soccer?

I started at 3 years old. I grew up around the game. My parents (Leslie-Ann O'Shea and Nick O'Shea) were players and coaches themselves. 

What is the appeal to you?

Well like I said, my whole family plays, so I have all of those people around me, plus my team. I love to be able to celebrate victories with all of them and experience that team culture. I also love that soccer gives you different ways to challenge yourself. 

What is your best skill?

I think I have a good soccer brain. I see the game well and I am intelligent in my choices of when to play (the ball forward) and when to go myself. 

What have you been working to improve?

Beating defenders and getting on the end of long balls, kind of being a bit more selfish and taking shots.

What is your favorite memory?

Two years ago, I made it to a national final with my club team (IMG Academy) in Greensboro, North Carolina. We lost, but the trip was so fun and a good experience, being able to fight through different challenges with my team and staying in a hotel with everyone. 

What are your goals for this season?

As a team we don't want to have any losses this year. That's it. We've played well so far. Everyone is working together. We get along great. I think it has shown on the field. 

What is your favorite food?

My go-to is chicken and pasta. 

What is your favorite school subject?

I actually take classes through Florida Virtual School, so this year I like anatomy and physiology. 

What is your favorite TV show?

'Criminal Minds' is my favorite. 

What are your hobbies?

I watch a lot of TikToks and I dance in front of my mirror, do those count?

What is the best advice you have received?

Play to your strengths. Don't try to do things you know you can't do. 

Finish this sentence: "Rylee O'Shea is …"

Chaotic. Sometimes I'm loud and sometimes I'm quiet and I'm like, 'Don't talk to me.' It just depends.