The Corner, Featuring Katie Robinson

Player Name: Katie Robinson

Year in School: Graduating Senior

Sport: Soccer

Name of School: Poquoson High School

Brief bio/summary from coach about player:

Katie has been with the Poquoson High School Soccer Program since the 8th grade.  She played one season with the Junior Varsity and then the last four years on Varsity.  Katie predominately played the outside midfield position, but occasionally filled in the center as needed.

Her work ethic during training sessions was second to none and she was always a fierce competitor on the pitch. Katie was a great leader off the pitch and organized preseason training sessions and set up team outings such as feeding the homeless. Overall, Katie played a significant role on and off the pitch and made a positive impact on the program.

Lets hear from Katie

What has helped you develop the leadership mindset you have today?

My mom and coaches have been my role models that I have looked up to and they have helped shape me into the player and leader I am today. Their constant motivation and push has inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and open myself to new experiences.

How do you think improving as a leader has helped you become a better athlete/player?

Improving as a leader has transitioned me from an individual-centered mindset to team mindset. I have a much better understanding of the value of being a member of a team. Being a part of a team has taught me the importance of everyone working together to accomplish a common goal.

How do you think improving as a leader has helped your team?

My leadership skills of problem solving, communication and positivity have helped me guide my team when we most needed a leader… through the ups and downs, the high and lows that a season brings. Gaining my teammates respect and trust, along with me playing to a standard of giving a 110% on the pitch at all times, have been critical factors in helping me lead effectively.  Even when we were up against our toughest competitors, I never stopped believing in us.

Was there a moment where you recall “turning the corner” and realizing you had to take the next step as a leader?

Yes, last season some players created a negative environment within our team. I realized our team was becoming fractured and it was affecting our game performance. At this point I saw an opportunity to lead and inspire the girls to help us come together and rise to our full potential.

What do you do differently now that you may not have done in the past as a leader?

The leader I am today, would put my team first, face challenging situations head on, and work to maximize my teammates potential.

How do other’s view Katie’s leadership growth?

Head Coach Tom Weih:

Katie has made great strides as a leader in the Poquoson Soccer Program.  As a team Captain she was faced with several challenging issues dealing with players that had personal problems to those not competing to their full potential.  She has learned when and how to communicate with her peers and the coaches.  Most importantly she has learned about self-awareness and the impact her actions have on others.

Assistant Coach Gregg McMullin: 

Katie is a two time captain and was poised to be a key player in our anticipated state title run.  Even before Covid-19 came into play, Katie tore her ACL in a preseason indoor tournament. After a few down days, Katie came back and was determined to make an impact on her team’s season.  In particular, I planned on having her help me with our Lead ‘Em Up activities. Once the season was cancelled, Katie ended up being my go to person to help me organize and coordinate the virtual Lead ‘Em Up sessions we ran during the Spring.  Our virtual sessions we successful in large part to the effort she put in to keep our girls connected.

How has Lead ‘Em Up has impacted your program?

Head Coach Tom Weih: 

Lead ‘Em Up has had a positive impact on the Poquoson High School Soccer Program.  The tools and sessions have built cohesion among the players and coaches, and has taught these student athletes many skills to prepare them for life after soccer.  Lead ‘Em Up has also helped build trust among the players and coaches, which is a critical ingredient that most coaches overlook. I look forward to embedding Lead ‘Em Up activities more consistently in the future.

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