Goalkeeper scores

A second team All-American achievement last fall couldn’t be more inspiring for North Lake soccer goalkeeper Nicole Ohlhaber.

The National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association commissioner and coaches voted from conference and Region V schools in the area.

 “I enjoyed this season and was able to average a big number of saves but I don’t feel like I played any differently,” said Ohlhaber.

As a Lady Blazer, Ohlhaber racked up 41 saves in 2008 and had a 30 percent increase with 53 saves this season.

The Chicago native admits to being a humble athlete and said she doesn’t get too boastful. “I don’t get really cocky but I’m subconsciously good,” she said. “I’ve always had parents and coaches tell me that I was a great player. And I’m trying to focus more on soccer than just my social life. I’m really persuaded by others that I have the potential.”

At a young age when Ohlhaber started to kick a ball around, she knew soccer was the right sport for her. She was 10 years old when she became serious and joined club teams at the starting forward position.

“I know most girls don’t like goalkeeping from experience,” Ohlhaber said. “It gave me the opportunity to play the position since it didn’t have the popularity,” she added.

The next step for Ohlhaber is a soccer scholarship to Northwood University in Cedar Hill and she plans to major in entertainment and sports promotions.

“If you love the game, there’s no reason why you wouldn’t do the dedicated thing to get better,” Ohlhaber said. “Whatever I can do to get better, I will. Nothing will step in my way.”