Fort Calhoun senior Abbie Anderson used her Thursday afternoon to sign with the College of Saint Mary soccer team.
The Pioneer basketball player, who plays club soccer with Omaha United, will join her sister Kylie in that endeavor.
“We used to train together all of the time, but we've never been on a team,” Anderson said. She plays forward and in the midfield. “I think we'll be able to connect really well with each other, hopefully.”
Kylie, who played her freshman season with the Flames after an Omaha Marian prep career, said she didn't pressure her younger sister into coming along to Saint Mary. Anderson said her big sister didn't say anything to make the decision either.
“She's said a lot of good things about the college,” the FCHS student said, noting a “nice campus” and “welcoming students.”
Anderson started playing soccer at age 3, continuing on through high school even though the Pioneers don't field a team. She instead plays on the Papillion-based United team.
“It's kind of a car drive,” the newest Flame said. “But it's totally worth it for me.”
Anderson's father played the sport and she's loved it for as long as she can remember.
“It's just always been with me,” she said. “I couldn't imagine my life without soccer.”
The Pioneer's career highlight came just last year when her club team won the Nebraska State Cup at Creighton's Morrison Stadium.
Kylie, meanwhile, looks forward to teaming up with her sister on the Heritage Park field, the home pitch of Saint Mary.
“I'm just excited to play with her again,” the elder Anderson said. “We play with each other pretty well … I think it will be good for the team.”
When asked what makes Abbie a college-level soccer player, Kylie was quick to answer and matter-of-fact.
“She's very aggressive to the ball,” she said. “She makes smart plays.”
