Marian’s Pilarski, a Royal Oak resident, grabs spot on EMU soccer squad By Sue Teggart Bloomfield Hills Marian senior Stephanie Pilarski, a Royal Oak resident, has played soccer since she was 6. Through the years, she worked her way up from playing in recreational leagues to club programs — Birmingham Blazers and Vardar — and then for the Mustangs, where she was a member of the 2009 Catholic League Central Division championship team and Division 2 state championship team. After years of exposure in tournaments and hard work, Pilarski has earned a spot on the Eastern Michigan University women’s soccer team. She made it official by signing her National Letter of Intent Feb.3. “It’s a huge relief,” Pilarski said. “It’s really nice knowing where I’m going, what I’m doing for college. … It was just really exciting to have it all figured out.” Contrary to what some college-bound athletes go through, Pilarski said the recruiting process wasn’t as difficult for her because she knew EMU was the right fit. “(EMU) came to me really early, so I wasn’t talking to as many schools as if I had waited later in the process,” said Pilarski, who added that she also considered Bowling Green State University, University of Toledo and Miami University (Ohio). “(EMU) got to me at such an early time, I think it was winter of my junior year that I verbally committed. … It was easy. I had it all set.” Pilarski said the Eagles’ coaches were a huge draw. “The coaches there are the nicest and most friendly people I’ve ever met,” Pilarski said. “They were really welcoming, and it was easy to talk to them. They have a good soccer program, too. Right off the bat, I fell in love with (EMU).” EMU head soccer coach Scott Hall said in a prepared statement that Pilarski is a technical player with a great understanding of the game. “She can put defenders under pressure with her individual technical skills,” Hall said. “Stephanie has played at a high level, which will give her confidence to compete and contribute in the MAC.” Besides the soccer program, Pilarski said her plan to pursue teaching led her to EMU. “I want to be a teacher, and they’re the best teaching school in Michigan,” Pilarski said. “It’s really nice, because it’s the school that’s fit for what I want to do.” Pilarski said her experience playing at Marian and her club team taught her about hard work. Last season, she netted 12 goals and nine assists for the Mustangs. Other than her technical skills, Marian coach Barry Brodsky said what makes Pilarski so special is the example she set for younger players. “I think the thing that stands out about Steph is she is exceptionally strong on the ball,” Brodsky said. “I think her work rate is exceptional. … She doesn’t take a day off. I think as far as the other girls, they see how good a player she is and they see how hard she works at it.” “Both Marian and Vardar prepared me for that next level, and I think it will be an easier transition,” Pilarski said. “I think just to continue on to this next level it will be a great experience.” You can reach Sports Writer Sue Teggart at steggart@candgnews.com or at (586) 279-1107. |
