East County Athlete of the Week: Avery Rice

Avery Rice has helped guide Out-of-Door Academy girls soccer to a 5-0 start. The sophomore has seven goals and one assist for the Thunder through Nov. 18. They have outscored opponents 25-4. Rice has been on varsity since eighth grade, and as a defender last season, had six goals and one assist in 12 games played. Rice is the East County Athlete of the Week.

When and why did you start playing soccer?

I started playing soccer when I was about 4 years old, and my parents just put me in it. Ever since, I've loved the sport.

What do you enjoy most about the sport?

I like how it's a community, and it's like a second family to me. I love representing ODA.

What's been the highlight of your career so far?

Winning the SSAA tournament — twice. That was fun. Those were big moments for ODA girls' soccer.

What are your goals entering your sophomore season with ODA?

One of my goals is to score the most goals, and to get athlete of the week.

The Thunder are off to a 5-0 start, what has been the focus in practice recently?

We've been doing this passing drill and shooting drill every practice. What's helping is we don't have very long practices, so I think it helps our legs rest up for the games that we have.

When you're not playing soccer, how do you spend your free time?

I like laying in bed, but I also play a lot of club soccer.

What's a quote or piece of wisdom you've heard that has stuck with you over the years?

Try your hardest, no matter what. Don't let anyone tell you what kind of player you are.

If you could meet any professional athlete, who would it be and why?

Alex Morgan, because I've loved her since I was a little girl. I just always looked up to her as a soccer player.

If you could go anywhere in the world right now for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

Hawaii, because it looks really nice there.

If you could have any superpower, what would you choose and why?

Invisibility, because I love people watching.

What's your favorite meal?

Pasta. I love pasta with butter.

What's your favorite movie?

I like Disney movies, so I like Rapunzel.

What's your go-to music to help get in the zone during practice or before a match?

I like country music, so it always puts me in the mood to do great things.

Finish this sentence. Avery Rice is...

Committed.