Gotham FC Player Profile: Abby Smith

ABBY ON THE FIELD

Abby’s Soccer Origin Story: “I started playing when I was six years old, when my parents put me into soccer just so I could get my energy out. I was an only child, so I didn’t have another sibling to go through the hoops with me. I was doing gymnastics too, but decided soccer was the best route for me.”

Style of Play: “I think of myself as a very dynamic player. I take a lot of pride in my distribution and I utilize my athleticism well. I’m also always still learning. This is my eighth season, but I still feel I have a lot of room for growth.”

Role as Goalkeeper: “There’s a lot that goes into goalkeeping. We’re not only shot-stoppers. We have to be able to distribute the ball to our teammates. We can also be the calming factor of the team. We can alter the tempo of a game. We are also able to help the coaches at times, because we can see the entire field from a unique vantage point. We are also human beings who make mistakes, so we rely on our teammates as much as they rely on us.”

Why Sign with Gotham FC? “There were a lot of factors. I wanted to go to a team where I could have an impact and play significant minutes. I’m also really big on being near my support system. I have a lot of family in the East. I was very excited to see the changes being made at Gotham FC, and deep down, I felt I could make an impact and help grow the organization from the ground up. It’s really exciting to be part of it.”

On Playing for NJ-NY: “We have a unique opportunity to represent both New Jersey and New York with a big city feel and the surrounding local communities in New Jersey as well. On the field, the club has revamped with a great coaching staff and dynamic players, which creates a great environment and one I am proud to be a part of.”

Her Motivation: “I constantly want to get better. I’m always asking myself what I can bring to the team and what can I do to help my teammates and make everyone better around me.”