Amidst North Atlanta High School’s soccer scene, one exceptional player has risen to the forefront: Millie McLeod. McLeod is a midfielder/forward with an unwavering commitment to the game who has now reached a defining moment in her athletic journey. As the sun sets on her high school career, we shine a spotlight on this extraordinary student-athlete, celebrating her commitment to Amherst College.
At the age of 4, McLeod took her first strides onto the soccer pitch, embarking on a journey that would soon capture her heart. Her love for the game ignited while playing for her father’s recreational team, a beginning that would shape her future. A pivotal moment arrived when, at just 7 years old, she tried out for the Tophat club team. She not only earned a spot on the roster but also discovered her true calling. “The moment I joined the top team at Tophat, I knew this sport was my destiny,” Millie said, “I saw all the older Tophat girls go to great colleges for the sport and that motivated me to be like one of them.”
McLeod has dedicated her life to soccer ever since. Between the ages of 9 and 14, she honed her skills in the Olympic Development Program for the southern region, shaping her into the player she is today. Being a student-athlete, she believes, is a valuable gift that teaches one how to manage time, people, your mind, and your body. However, it’s not without its challenges. “I’ve always been on the move for the sport, which meant missing school and social events,” McLeod reflects, “But it’s taught me to truly appreciate the moments I get to spend here in Atlanta with my family and friends.”
McLeod’s commitment journey was a rigorous process, given the intense competition for girls’ soccer talent in Georgia. It was at a Brown University camp where she caught the attention of the Amherst coach. Following the camp, she received emails from both Brown and Amherst, but it was the personalized approach from Amherst that stood out. In McLeod’s words, “My goal has always been to use soccer to get into the best school possible.” Just three days after an official visit to Amherst, where she not only fell in love with the campus and team but also realized the immense potential for her success and happiness, she made her commitment.
McLeod’s true dedication and hard work have finally paid off with her commitment. While she is ecstatic about this achievement, the impending end of her final season as a Warrior leaves both McLeod and the Dubs with mixed emotions. Throughout her years playing varsity soccer at NAHS, she and Ted Colburn, her coach since the age of 8, have brought the team to new heights. “Ted has elevated my playing standards and always motivates me to strive for excellence,” said McLeod, “As a captain, I aim to lead by example and carry forward the legacy I’ve witnessed seniors build over the past four years.”
With her college plans now firmly in place, McLeod plans to enjoy every moment of her senior year at North Atlanta, while also eagerly anticipating her upcoming transition to Amherst, Massachusetts. Her academic aspirations align with Amherst’s outstanding programs, with plans to major in either Business or pursue a Pre-Med track. As she embarks on her college journey, her future both on and off the field shines brightly. The entire North Atlanta community extends congratulations and wishes Millie the very best of luck. Go Mammoths, but forever, Go Dubs!
