In the world of North Atlanta sports, where dedication meets determination, one exceptional athlete has emerged as a true force to be reckoned with. Senior Ansley McCaffrey, a defender for the Lady Dubs Soccer Team and Southern Soccer Academy, has proven her excellence both on and off the field by committing to Emory University.
Commencing her journey in soccer at the age of 5, McCaffrey discovered a lifelong passion. From that moment onwards, the sport became the highlight of her days and it still is. She decided to take the jump to a more serious team in the 7th grade and made the realization 3 years later that soccer is her future. Her commitment to the sport paid off but also took a toll on her life in high school. “Playing club soccer involves frequent travel, so I often do my homework during commutes and downtime between practices,” said McCaffrey. “Despite limited sleep due to late-night studying, I maximize productivity during school hours which helps me a lot”.
McCaffrey started her commitment process in the fall of sophomore year. She was selective with the schools she tried to pursue as she already had known the kind of school she wanted to attend. In the end, she was considering Emory, Davidson, and Sewanee. The end decision of Emory was driven by a variety of factors. “Initially, my interest in Emory sparked from the incredible coaches, Sue and Catherine, who I admired,” said McCaffrey. “Emory aligns with my pre-med aspirations, being the ideal high-academic institution, I sought, a bonus being its location and stunning campus”.
A massive weight came off of McCaffrey’s shoulders knowing all her hard work paid off. The past 3 years as a varsity athlete in both cross country and soccer at North Atlanta have been both challenging and exhilarating for her. With college drawing near, McCaffrey is thrilled about everything ahead of her. She anticipates the remainder of her senior year and her final season donning the Dubs’ jersey. “In my last season as a Dub, I am really just looking forward to spending time with the soccer sisters,” said McCaffrey. “I am sad my ride as a Dub is ending come May, but it has been the best time of my life and I am not going to waste a second of the remaining time”.
McCaffrey is a triple threat, being a standout soccer player, cross-country runner, and IB DP student. It’s safe to say the future is very bright for this star student-athlete. Though her journey at North Atlanta continues, the Dubs soccer community is already feeling the impending loss as her senior season nears its end. McCaffrey will miss her times as a North Atlanta Warrior, but she is ready for her future at Emory. Congrats Ansley! Go Eagles, but forever, Go Dubs!