Starting soccer at age five, Bridget Durkin quickly fell in love with the game. She was a freshman on varsity and is now a senior captain of her team, Durkin’s dedication to soccer resulted in many successful seasons. Throughout her high school career, Durkin has had impressive contributions to the team, such as leading assist sophomore year, leading goal scorer as a junior, and three All-Sectional awards. Her journey wasn’t a straight path to the top, but hard work to continue getting to the next level.
“I started playing for AYSO, and then I went to Team Evanston, and then to FC United, and then to the top team at FC United. It was a very big ladder, because everywhere I went, I just realized how much I loved it and how I just wanted to keep getting better,” said Durkin.
After a competitive recruiting process, Durkin will continue at the collegiate level, playing Division l soccer at Northeastern University. Durkin explained her decision was influenced by Northeastern’s prestigious academics and scholarship money. Durkin plans to major in business law and expressed her excitement about living in Boston.
“I love Boston. I’ve only really been there twice, but from what I’ve seen, I’ve loved it. I am such a city girl, and there is so much to do there,” said Durkin. “I’m really excited to be on the East Coast, in a different culture, and meet new people.”
Durkin expressed that one of her favorite memories from ETHS was beating New Trier 3-0 her freshman year, with the first goal coming off of her assist. A new favorite memory of hers is beating Glenbrook North 3-0, scoring a hat-trick in her first conference game of senior year. Durkin also reflected on the support and inspiration from her club coach, high school coach, and parents, who have helped her throughout her career.
“My favorite overall memory at ETHS was everyone that I’ve met. It’s such a diverse community, and that goes within my team too,” expressed Durkin. “I’ve met the most unique people through teachers to peers to teammates, and I’m so grateful for that experience.”
