Meredith Dunsmore Commits to Catholic University of America

In the United States, a little over 7% of high school athletes go on to play varsity sports in college (scholarshipstats.com). FCGB Center of Excellence, on several occasions, has been able to drive their athletes to become a part of that seven percent.

FCGB’s 2005 left-back, Meredith Dunsmore, a senior at The Academy of the Holy Cross, has just committed to The Catholic University of America.

She first began her athletic career in elementary school at age five. Her mother’s friend was the coach for her elementary school’s soccer team, and her mother initiated her journey to play soccer and signed her up for the team. In third grade, Meredith joined OBGC House, where she would play until finally transitioning to FCGB Center of Excellence in 2017 at 11. With her transition into FCGB, Meredith recognized a difference in how they operated compared to her past clubs and teams.

When asked about the difference in training, Meredith said, “FCGB taught me how actually to play. They taught me all the technical stuff—how to read the game and have possession—not just kick the ball and run.” Meredith added, “They (FCGB) actually did a variety of things compared to doing the same drills in every practice.”

Meredith’s story wasn’t always straightforward; she faced difficulties in her athletic career. In March of 2023, Meredith struggled with an ankle injury that caused her to be out for almost two months, missing two tournaments. She struggled to be patient throughout her recovery and was desperate to return to the field immediately. Meredith didn’t only struggle physically, but mentally as well in her athletic pursuit. When asked if she ever thought about giving up playing soccer, she explained it crossed her mind because she wasn’t in the best mental state. She struggled with not wanting to go to practice, but in a sense, being present was an outlet that helped her struggles disappear. As time passed, Meredith realized FCGB was her sanctuary and wasn’t about to give up on her passion.

Meredith believes that her most prominent supporters were not only her mother and father but God as well. “I just wanted to mention that God was instrumental in my journey and helped me get through my injury and my tough mental state,” Meredith stated. “Without Him, none of this would have been possible.” Meredith believes God has been instrumental in her journey and has begun incorporating more of her faith into her practices and games. “Something that I have started pretty recently as well as asking God for his energy, strength, and discipline before I play and I offer up what I’m doing to Him, and I think that has helped me a lot,” Meredith stated.

Meredith addressed the significance FCGB had on her path to being committed as a college athlete. She believes she wouldn’t be here today without not only their support but their guidance as well. Meredith didn’t only perceive FCGB as a club; she also viewed everyone there as a family. Creating some of the most memorable experiences with her teammates and coaches, the unforgettable team dinners, the people, and trips to their tournaments. Her coach, Patrick, words that stuck with her was, “Your effort and dedication when you show up is going to influence your playing time, so just try to always give your best effort.”

The encouraging words of her coaches have helped her motivate herself and push through her struggles. If Meredith had to take away one big lesson during her time in FCGB, it would be to give your all and always try your best no matter what, and that’s precisely what she did.