Leesburg, Va. — Loudoun County High School junior Brooke Kirstein has made the commitment to continue her soccer career at Duquesne University starting in the 2020-2021 academic year.
“It feels amazing being committed to a college for the sport you love,” the 5-foot-6 Kirstein said. “It’s always been a dream of mine to play Division I soccer, and it finally came true. I can’t wait to keep improving to be the best I can be!”
[adrotate banner=”29″]A college commitment is always a relief, but Kirstein is going to have to work harder than ever to earn playing time at Duquesne. The Division I Dukes – led by seventh-year head coach Al Alvine – finished their 2017 season with an 11-6-3 record, including a 6-3-1 finish in the Atlantic 10.
“I think I will add leadership and enthusiasm to the Dukes’ team,” said Kirstein, who plans to play forward for Duquesne. “I am a very outgoing person and always looking to help anyone out. I’m so excited to meet a whole new set of girls in this next chapter of my life who will be family to me.”
Although Kirstein will be meeting lots of new teammates, she may run into some familiar faces. Alvine and the Dukes have recruited a number of Loudoun graduates over the years, including Loudoun County High School graduate Allison Maliska, Tuscarora High School senior Kristina Skulte, and Broad Run High School alumna Lexi Taylor.
Alvine’s dedication to his team was one of the driving factors behind Kirstein’s commitment to Duquesne.
“The women’s soccer staff at Duquesne is just absolutely incredible,” said Kirstein, who plays club for Loudoun 02 ECNL. “I also love the campus feel and the layout of the university. It’s in a compact area right by the river which is very pretty. I really love the city of Pittsburgh and everything it has to offer. Even though I am not from Pittsburgh, every time I go, it feels like home.”
Kirstein will make the move to Pittsburgh – more than 200 miles away from her hometown – two falls from now. Before she sets off, however, she hopes to lead the Raiders back to the state playoffs.
In 2018, the Lady Raiders posted a 17-6-1 record that culminated with a win in the VHSL 4A State Championship game. Kirstein scored one of the Lady Raiders’ three goals en route to the teams’ third state championship title.
“Playing for Loudoun County has been such a great adventure,” Kirstein said. “I love playing for my school and getting all the support from friends, fans and teachers. I have become so close with all of my teammates who have actually become some of my best friends.”