SOSA Staff Report
KINNIKINNICK — After four years of outrunning area defenses, Zane Trace’s Haynna Addy will have the chance to do something similar at the collegiate level.
CREDIT: Jenny Campbell/SOSA
Addy, the Pioneers’ forward and leading scorer over the past several years, made the decision to continue her academic and athletic careers at Shawnee State University on Tuesday, signing her National Letter of Intent.
Her decision was made based on her future major and the campus’ close proximity to her hometown.
“The reason why I chose SSU is because I have always wanted to be a nurse, and that was what it really came down to,” Addy said. “There has been so many great colleges that have reached out to me but none of them had a nursing program. Soccer is an important part of my life and even though I can play whenever I want, nursing is what I’ll spend my life doing. That’s the most important thing. SSU is also close to home. I can come home on weekends, or pretty much whenever I want.”
Of course, Addy’s decision couldn’t have been made without the support from her family and friends.
“My family has been so supportive during this decision. I probably should’ve made it awhile ago but I really wanted to keep my options open,” Addy said. “My dad has put in so much time, money and effort into everything for me. He has been very patient with me, even though I would put off making this decision sometimes. My teammates and coaches have been so amazing and supportive. I would not be the player or person I am today without them.”
Addy has been playing soccer for as long as she can remember. Her club coaches also had a part in her college choice … especially Chris Murphy.
“A lot of [Addy’s teammates] have been playing together since we were like 13 when we got into club soccer,” Addy said. “My club coach, Chris Murphy, has been my rock. I can go to him for anything. His family is like my second family. He has shaped me into the player I am and I give all the credit to him for helping me get this far.”
Addy earned all-conference, all-district and all-state honors as a senior. This coming fall, she’ll have the chance to contribute to Shawnee State’s cause right away.
Last season, the Bears were 6-12 overall with a 2-6 mark in conference play.
“I’m really looking forward to making new friends and to continue to learn and improve my game,” Addy said. “I’m very lucky to be able to keep playing the sport I love. The opportunities soccer has brought to me is amazing. I’m just so excited and lucky to be able to continue playing.”