Spanik

Emma Spanik: PSU Altoona soccer

Name: Emma Spanik

High school: Glendale

Hometown: Blandburg

Sport: Soccer

Position: Center back

College choice: Penn State Altoona

Other colleges considered: Slippery Rock, Juniata

Why I picked PSU Altoona: “I picked PSU Altoona because I’ve always loved the school and felt they have amazing opportunities and programs.”

Greatest high school achievement: ” My greatest high school achievement would have to be winning the District 6 championship with my favorite people.”

Coach Nikki Spanik’s quote: “Emma has been a huge asset for our team through the years — with her speed and defensive skills landing her in a varsity starter position since she was a freshman. Her ability to run the back line was crucial in helping us build our program from not qualifying for playoffs my first year to D6 champions. Her presence of grit, speed and defensive battles to win the ball will be hard to replace. She showed up to every game focused and consistent with 100% dedication to the team. Playing for PSU Altoona is a huge honor and one she’s talked about since attending a game in sixth grade. I wish her nothing but success as she steps into this challenging new chapter in her life and achieves the dream of playing for PSU Altoona.”

How I got my start in soccer: “I got my start in soccer playing in the local AYSO program at the age of 5.”

Favorite college growing up: Penn State

Other interests: Spending time in nature and with my family

What getting to play in college means to me: “Playing in college is a surreal feeling because it means the little girl who started in a little area with her big dreams made it.”

Probable college major: Early childhood education

Parents: Nichole and Jason Spanik