If you passed senior Emily Market on the campus of Villa Joseph Marie Academy, it would appear on the surface that she is just like any other book-toting, text-crazed teenager, trying to navigate the hallways to her next class.
Much like a duck on the water, where everything above the surface is tranquil and smooth, the flippers are working like crazy below, Market is our honorary duck this week, otherwise know as Patch’s "Hidden Gem" student profile.
On the soccer field, Market has been virtually unstoppable, helping lead the unbeaten gems through the treacherous waters know as the catholic Academies league schedule, where every game it seams is played against a rival.
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Playing since she was the ripe old age of 10, Market is now in her seventh year playing soccer and all of the work and practicing that she has done at school and on her club team YMS (Yardley-Mayfield) soccer club has started to reap benefits for the jovial teen.
Her exploits on the field have snagged national attention as the University of Delaware, where she will more than likely be playing soccer for the Blue Hens earning a scholarship with one of the nations best colleges, has recruited her.
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"Emily is a great player," said teammate Alexa Fabbri, who has become part of a lethal scoring duo with Market as the parings has combined for seven goals in the last three games. "More importantly, she is a great person and has really helped me this year. She is one of those people who would do anything for you to help you improve.”
Market, who according to teammates has been training for years, will get ample opportunity to help other in the future as she hopes to pursue a career in nursing.
When we caught up to the surprisingly grounded Miss Market, following a game last week, she was quick to give credit for the person she is and is becoming to her mother (Helena) and father (Vince).
"I would be nothing without my mom and dad," Market said. "They have set the example for me to be the person I am. They always taught me to give everything I have to whatever I do and to do it with honesty and integrity. I am so blessed to have such a great support system."
Getting to know our student spotlight, here are five questions Patch had to ask:
What subject is you favorite and why are you pursuing your career in it?
“I love biology. It’s interesting. I will also be studying Forensic Biology, which is awesome. I have always seen myself being in a profession where I can help people and I have always respected doctors and nurses for the job they do.”
What kind of music do you listen to on or off the field?
“Wow, I listen to everything. It depends on what I am doing. I listen to rap, rock, some pop stuff is OK and even a little country.”
Around the AACA, Villa Joe is always the team to beat, do you like that role?
“It’s cool being the 'Evil Empire' like in Star Wars, we have earned a reputation of being a good team in any sport. It’s fun to have other kids you know socially be intimidated by us. It’s a pride thing.”
If you had a celebrity crush, who would it be?
“Hmmmm, I would say the rapper Drake, he jut has some amazing songs and he seems so cool and smooth.”
If you could play three-on-three soccer, or just hang out with any three people in the world who would it be?
“First would be Mia Hamm. She is just amazing and meant so much to soccer in the USA. Of course Drake and also Hope Solo would be awesome to meet and get to hang out with.”
Final thoughts?
“We had a great season last year that was cut short of winning districts by Villa Maria. We want to win it this year and get to states. A state championship my senior year would be an awesome way to go out for our seniors.”
