The Idaho Youth Soccer Association and Stannopresent
Mehli Marcellus
SEPTEMBERPLAYER OF THE MONTH
Current club/high school team:
The club team I play for is Twin Falls Rapids where I have played with the same core group of players for 9 years. My high school team is Twin Falls High School where I have enjoyed playing for 3 years.
ODP experience:
I have been participating in ODP for each year I have been eligible and have made the state team for three years. I have enjoyed my time playing ODP getting to know new players and coaches from within my state as well as people from outside of Idaho.
Position:
I have played every position on the field at some point in my soccer career which has been fun, if not scary at times. I play Center Midfield and Keeper most consistently, though I also play outside midfielder often.
Most memorable soccer experience:
I love team dinners with my high school and club teams. We always eat a lot of really great food, laugh uncontrollably and end up knowing intimate details about each other (like what color of underwear we each prefer).
I also remember vividly the first goals I scored after coming back from my ACL surgery and rehab. My coach sent us back out to the field after a 0-0 first half and said that we were doing well but that one of us needed to step up and put up a goal. I took a shot from about the 25. I sank to my knees willing the ball to go in. It sunk it in behind the keeper’s hands into the back of the net. I got a similar goal in the second game against them a few hours later and loved hearing their coach yelling for his team to mark me closer because I was dangerous from outside of the box. I then got a chance to guest play for that coach several times after that which was also great.
Favorite teams/players:
I love watching the US Womens’ team. Abby Wambach is my favorite player, but I also like watching Christine Rampone’s leadership, and Heather O’Reilly’s work ethic. Ok, and Alex Morgan is pretty exciting to watch too….and Megan Rapinoe. I also like watching Neymar from Brazil. W-O-W
Mentor/hero:
I have been very blessed to have many wonderful coaches, team parents, and mentors in my soccer life from club to high school and ODP. Each coach has had such a positive impact on who I am and how I play and understand the game. In addition to them, John Koth, Dr. Kevin Shae, and Kelly Feldman have all had a wonderful impact on my soccer and personal life. They helped me through some of the most difficult days of my soccer life after I tore my ACL and struggled to rehabilitate my body and mind. They continue to be available to me and are always encouraging me to reach my goals whenever they see me. They are always willing to take time out for me, take my calls, and give sound advice regarding everything from academic and college issues to soccer and health issues. They teach me about the kind of person I am striving to be. I would not be the person I am today without this entire group who continually supports me.
Favorite way to spend a few free hours:
I really like hiking in the mountains and camping (as long as there is a bathroom close). I also really like sleeping in on the weekends when I don’t have games and eating! I like hanging out with my friends, watching movies, listening to music, and, yes, EATING!
Accomplishments:
I have made the state ODP team for 3 years and attended Regional camp 2 of those years (torn ACL prevented the 3rd). I have been asked to guest play several times and guest played at the President’s Cup in Denver in 2012. I represented Idaho in Utah ODP exchanges and was selected to represent Idaho in the 2012 Regional ODP tournament in Phoenix as well.
I have been an honor roll student every year in school. I am a member of NSHSS and write for my school news paper.
Favorite quote:
My favorite quote is from Phil Woosnam who said, “The rules of soccer of very simple... If it moves, kick it and if it doesn't kick it until it does”