Woodward High School’s Camryn Koch
Senior goalkeeper Camryn Koch has grown up in the goal for Woodward High School, and she is determined to make her final varsity season her most confident yet.
Koch, a senior, has been playing soccer for 15 years, a journey that began in early childhood and eventually led her to become the last line of defense for the Boomers. She said the hardest part of being a goalkeeper is handling the pressure that comes with the position.
“I am the goalie and the hardest part about my position is the pressure,” Koch said. “Staying calm has helped me in high pressure situations.”
That calm demeanor is something she admires in one of her role models, United States women’s national team goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher. Koch said she looks up to Naeher’s confidence and composure, especially when matches tighten and every touch matters. Those same traits have helped Koch develop her own mental game. She said the biggest area of improvement this season has been her confidence and ability to reset quickly. “Staying mentally strong is a big part of my position, so it’s important for me to not get in my head,” Koch said. “I’ve learned to move quickly after a mistake and keep a positive mindset.”
Koch credits her mother as the person who inspires her most, describing her as strong, independent and unwilling to let challenges stand in her way. That example has shaped Koch’s approach to soccer and school, where her favorite subject is English. She especially enjoyed class with Mrs. Clark, a teacher she said made the classroom comfortable and fun with her sense of humor.
On the field, Koch said the best part of playing for Woodward is the friendships and memories built through practices and games. “It’s the memories, jokes, and support we give each other that makes it special,” she said. Away from soccer, she enjoys spending time with friends or relaxing at home watching movies — a balance that helps her recharge before stepping back into the net for Woodward.
