Eastshore Alliance FC Stars Commit to Collegiate Soccer Futures
As the summer sun casts long shadows over the fields where they’ve honed their skills, two standout players from Eastshore Alliance FC are set to embark on exciting new chapters in their soccer careers. Avery Cohen and Toby Jacobson-Bell, each with their unique journeys and aspirations, will be taking their talents to the collegiate level this fall. Here are their stories, their advice for future stars, and their gratitude for those who supported them along the way.
Avery Cohen: From Reluctant Beginner to Collegiate Contender
Journey to College Soccer
Avery Cohen’s soccer journey began somewhat reluctantly. “I started when I was 4 or 5 at a different club,” she recalls. “The first practice I ever attended, I was sort of pushed by my mom. I didn’t want to go at all. I had no interest. And then I went, and after that, soccer has been all I’ve known.” From those early days of resistance, Avery’s love for the game blossomed, leading her through various levels of play, from recreational soccer to competitive teams like Spurs FC and Mavericks, ultimately finding her home at Eastshore Alliance FC and playing for the Albany High School Women’s Varsity team.
Pathway to College
Avery’s determination to play soccer in college was unwavering, despite the challenges she faced. “I started looking at colleges between sophomore and junior year,” she shares. “My mom and I did a road trip and looked at schools in Southern California. I didn’t know at the time if it was really possible because I was injured.” Avery’s resilience shone through as she attended ID camps, emailed coaches, and worked diligently with her mentor, JT.
The decision came down to Monterey Bay and Whitman. “Something about Whitman pulled me in that direction,” Avery explains. “I went on an official visit and knew early on that I always wanted a small school on the West Coast. Whitman checked all those boxes. The community of the team and school just felt right.”
Looking Forward
As she prepares to head to Whitman, Avery is eager for the challenges and camaraderie that await her. “I’m looking forward to college soccer. It’s something new. To finally get to a level where everyone wants to be there and has the same objective – you literally have to fight every practice for a spot, but you also love each other. I’m ready for something new. Meeting new people, experiencing a new community.”
Advice for Aspiring Players
Avery’s advice for younger players is to start early and be proactive. “You have to send so many emails and contact so many different coaches and schools. If you start earlier, it’s so much easier. Reach out to as many schools as possible that you’re interested in. Also, if the team you’re on doesn’t have the same goals as you, look for other opportunities where you can learn and grow outside of practice.”
Gratitude
Avery is quick to express her gratitude to those who supported her journey. “Obviously, my mom. She’s my rock. My family, coaches, and teammates – whether you’ve coached me, given me a tip, or just a high five, you’ve made me the player I am today. It’s a team sport, and I love that it’s a shared experience.”
Toby Jacobson-Bell: A Goalkeeper’s Relentless Pursuit of Excellence
Journey to College Soccer
Toby Jacobson-Bell’s soccer journey began at the age of four, with his mom coaching his grassroots team in Half Moon Bay. After moving to Berkeley, he joined a local soccer club to play with school friends before seeking more competitive opportunities with Spurs FC at 14. “I jumped around a few more times in hopes of getting the most exposure possible,” Toby says, reflecting on his varied experiences.
Pathway to College
Toby’s path to collegiate soccer was characterized by perseverance and strategic decisions. “I was never given anything – I always had to go out and get it,” he emphasizes. A pivotal moment came when he decided to try out for ODP, ultimately making it to the ODP Regional Camp.
Looking Forward
Toby is excited about the new experiences that college will bring, both on and off the pitch. “Playing soccer, living independently, making new connections, and finding what I actually want to do after college.”
Advice for Aspiring Players
Toby advises younger players to start early with competitive teams and to be proactive in creating opportunities. “Send emails, get your team to go to tournaments, go to ID camps, watch the colleges you want to attend play, and speak with coaches. Take advantage of the resources you are given. It’s all about opportunities.”
Gratitude
Toby acknowledges the many people who have supported him along the way. “All my coaches, especially Kev who taught me everything about being a goalkeeper, JT who helped with everything off the pitch, and Sam who helped my mental game. My parents who supported me financially and emotionally throughout this journey.”
Looking Ahead
As Avery and Toby prepare to take the next step in their soccer careers, Eastshore Alliance FC couldn’t be prouder. Their journeys are testaments to their dedication, resilience, and passion for the game. We wish them the best of luck at Whitman and UC Santa Cruz, respectively, and look forward to seeing their continued success on and off the field.