Hard Work Pays Off

By: Charley Howard

Playing sports in a 1A school can come with its challenges. There are very few opportunities to shine amongst players from other schools and to stand out to college scouts. As a school in a small town in Indiana, Culver Community High School has only had a few students that have received the attention of outsiders because of their athletic ability. However, there is a student athlete amongst the class of 2024 who is exceeding all expectations of a Culver Community High School athlete.

Giselle Villegas, a senior at Culver Community, has been playing soccer since first grade. She began playing after watching her dad and his friends play when she was younger. Now, as a senior, Villegas was ranked first in the nation for scoring in high school girls soccer according to MaxPreps. Currently, Villegas is fourth in the nation with MaxPreps points, first in the nation for class 1A, and first in the nation for Northern States.

“It feels great,” said Villegas. “But at the same time, it doesn’t feel real.”

This season, Villegas has had a lot of attention shine on her with all these achievements. On top of her high rankings, Villegas has been nominated for MaxPreps twice in her soccer season, was voted Athlete of the Week at Culver Community High School, and was voted WKVI Athlete of the Week. All of these successes are beginning to feel surreal. 

“I’ve been Giselle’s coach her entire high school career,” said high school girl’s varsity soccer coach AJ Neace. “It’s been a blessing to be able to coach someone of her caliber her entire career.” 

Coach Neace has been able to see Villegas grow not only her skills and capability, but her love and dedication for the sport. Neace says he has given Giselle advice any chance he can and has tweaked a few things on how she plays through her career. Besides that, Neace says that her skills and deftness are all because of her.

“…As she progressed, she started helping other people out to make goals while still shining,” said senior Eriahna Vela, who has been playing soccer with Villegas since elementary school. “So, it’s been pretty awesome because she’s a great player.” 

As Villegas has grown and progressed in the sport, Vela says it has been amazing witnessing her grow and shine as a player. 

“It’s been fun playing with Giselle. I feel like I’ve learned a lot from her,” said freshman Eliana Andrzejewski. “Her speed has increased throughout the season and she has gotten better as a leader.” 

Giselle Villegas has grown tremendously throughout her soccer career. From her coach to her new and old teammates, everyone is proud of her and the variety of accomplishments she has achieved this season. Culver Community is beyond proud to have Giselle as a member and teammate on the girls varsity soccer team.