ORLANDO, Fla — Lael Hill from Lake Highland Prep ranks among the top junior soccer talents in the state. With a strong athletic family background, she aims to further that legacy. However, prior to her focus on soccer, she engaged in various sports throughout her childhood. “I played anything that came my way, and I […]
ORLANDO, Fla — Lael Hill from Lake Highland Prep ranks among the top junior soccer talents in the state. With a strong athletic family background, she aims to further that legacy. However, prior to her focus on soccer, she engaged in various sports throughout her childhood.
“I played anything that came my way, and I was generally pretty good at it,” Hill remarked. “Then I was given a soccer ball, and I found I enjoyed it more than the other sports.”
She began playing in the backyard with her family, taking shots on her dad, who acted as the goalie. Since then, her passion for soccer has only grown.
“One day I asked if I could play soccer, and that’s how it all started,” she shared. “Playing brings me happiness, and every day, my love for the sport just deepens.”
Although Lael is still a junior, she has already decided on her future path after graduating from Lake Highland Prep.
“I’ll be attending the University of Florida in Gainesville,” Hill stated. “I’m really looking forward to playing there. I always had a feeling I would end up there. The coaches have been interested in me since the end of my freshman year.”
“At first, they couldn’t reach out to me, but once they could, they were the first team to send me anything,” she added.
Her ability to compete in soccer at the SEC level is not unexpected, particularly considering her father’s athletic accomplishments.
“Oh, my dad is Grant Hill,” said Hill. “He’s definitely my biggest supporter. He tries to make it to every game he can despite his busy schedule, so he’s one of my main supporters.”
This year, the Highlanders are off to a strong start, which is crucial given the toughness of their schedule. Nonetheless, the team is hopeful about their potential achievements.
“This year’s team is really fantastic. Everyone is so nice and talented,” she said. “We have a shot at winning districts, regionals, and states this season.”
Lael also feels positive about her future in the sport.
“I aspire to go pro,” she expressed. “I want to grow during my time in college and build a legacy at UF, as well as here in high school. My aim is to reach as far as I can.”