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Schuering A Star On, Off The Field

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By CLIFF GILL Tribune correspondent

The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 8, 2008

HUDSON - Alicia Schuering's soccer coach and her teachers have nothing but praise for the Hudson High sophomore.

"Alicia is the consummate student-athlete. She succeeds because she is determined, listens and is intent on her goals," said Coach Christine Rizzieri.

The Hudson midfielder finished the season as the team's second-leading scorer and was third in assists. Her efforts helped lead Hudson to a 20-2-4 record and a district championship against rival Springstead High. Schuering was rewarded by being named second-team all-conference.

"After beating Springstead to win district, the celebrations on the field and on the bus ride back to school were very loud and emotional. We're a close team, and there were hugs and cheers among the players, coaches and parents," Schuering said.

"I practice with the school team three to four times per week and play club ball on weekends," she said. "In addition, I practice my footwork wherever I go."

Schuering is superstitious and has rituals before each game.

"I have special handshakes with my teammates, make up motivational sayings to get the team pumped up and lead the team in prayer before every game," she said.

In the classroom, Schuering has a 3.3 GPA ,and her curriculum is loaded with honors courses in English, American History, Biology and Algebra II.

"Hudson has great teachers who make school interesting and fun," she said. "I like learning new things and sharing them with my parents when I get home."
English teacher Allison Poindexter believes Schuering deserves the credit for her academic success.

"The thing about Alicia is that she is an excellent student because she has had to work hard," Poindexter said. "She was assigned a presentation for my class that was going to be challenging for her. She came after school to work with me more than once. That level of dedication and maturity is rare. Also, Alicia has parents who have high expectations of her."

Despite a demanding schedule, Schuering volunteers at Bayonet Point Hospital, at Veterans Park and with Special Olympics.

"The athletes in Special Olympics are excited just to participate," Schuering said. "Seeing their faces and their reactions at something most kids take for granted makes it all worthwhile."

Teachers, coaches: If you would like to nominate an outstanding student-athlete to be featured in an upcoming In The Community article, contact Cliff Gill at reportercliffgill@yahoo.com or (727) 860-4903.

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