PAOLA, Malta- 2022 First Team All-OVC and former Trojan,
Natalee Geren, gets her first swing at professional soccer after signing with Hibernians F.C. in Paola, Malta.
Geren was a defender for the Trojans from 2018-2022 playing in 90 matches with 73 starts. When asked about her time at Little Rock, Geren says:
"My time at Little Rock helped me grow tremendously as a player. I was surrounded by a level of talent that pushed me, and had coaches who were always doing all they could to help me get better. I faced a lot of challenges and adversity that helped me mature not only as a player, but also as a person which helped me see the game differently. My time at Little Rock is something that I will always be incredibly grateful for because I would not be where I am today without all of the support and love that I received while there."
Geren wore the Little Rock jersey with pride, class, and dignity. Not only was she a notable weapon on the field, but her impact off the field and in the locker room was just as strong. Her teammate and fellow defender, Colleen Gillaland had this to say:
"Last year, I had the privilege of playing alongside Natalee during her final year of college soccer and my first. She was an absolute force to be reckoned with on the field. Her leadership, passion for the game, and desire to win was a rare gem that I was lucky to witness; however, it was off the field where I really grew to love Natalee. Whether I was lacking confidence or grieving my very first own-goal, Natalee was always there to remind me that she believed in me, even when I didn't. She is going to do amazing things in Malta, and I am so excited to see what she accomplishes."
Like Colleen, Head Coach
Kelly Farrell also started her first year during Geren's final year. Because it was her first year as a head coach, Farrell leaned on Geren to be a leader on the field and effectively a fourth coach. Coach Farrell had this to say:
"I'm super excited for Natalee! Taking her game to the next level was a goal that we discussed when I first got to Little Rock and I'm thrilled to see it come to fruition. Natalee embodied everything I want in a member of this team. She is a fierce competitor, tremendous athlete, strong leader, and all-around great soccer player. I know her never-say-die attitude will serve her well in her professional career. I'm beyond excited to follow her journey in Malta and beyond!"
Geren left her mark on Little Rock and will look to do the same in Malta as she starts her career. Little Rock Soccer and the entire athletic department is proud of Natalee and looks forward to seeing her career progress.
For the latest information on Little Rock Soccer, make sure to check out LRTrojans.com. You can also find the team on social media at @LittleRockSOC on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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