When your father is a soccer coach, the chances of you playing soccer are high. Bixby High School’s Kaylee Gibson embraced the sport and started playing as soon as she could kick the ball. Now a senior, Gibson is playing in her final prep season before heading off the college.
“Bixby provides me the tools to be able to succeed both academically and athletically. My coaches understand the balance between being and athlete and student so that helps me preform my best in both aspects,” Gibson said. “My plan for life after college is playing professional soccer. I believe University of Tampa soccer gives me the best outlet to achieve that plan.”
Gibson transferred to BHS this season and she said she loves this team and her teammates.
“The thing I love most about my teammates is the effort and passion they put into the game and the welcoming environment they create on and off the field,” Gibson said. “The teammate that has impressed me the most so far has got to be Sadie Trotter. She has been through so much coming back from her second ACL tear and watching her be so brave and have so much confidence at the 6-role has been incredible to watch.”
Gibson is a versatile player who is comfortable at nearly any position.
“I have played every attacking position and currently play the 10 or 9. I like to try the 7 or 11 sometimes so I can isolate myself to dribble 1v1,” Gibson said. “One of the biggest strengths in my skill set is my ability to dribble and make quick decisions. This year I have improved so much with perfecting my passes and threading them through tight spaces.”
Finding inspiration is easy for Gibson. She only needs to at home to find it.
“My biggest inspiration on and off the field is my mom. She is constantly playing in any game she can and has always kept on me to focus on my goal. She wanted to play professionally, so I carry her dream along with mine as well,” said Gibson.
In her free time, Gibson likes to be outdoors getting a tan and getting some touches on the ball with her brother. This summer Gibson plans to prepare for college.
“My plans for the summer are preparing for college, focusing on staying in shape, and keeping my touch sharp,” said Gibson.
