Beyond the Jersey: Strength, Soccer, and the Pursuit of Justice

Adyson Youse isn't just a soccer player at Penn State Schuylkill—she's a driven student, a compassionate teammate, and a resilient individual with a bright future on the law path. Majoring in Criminal Justice with aspirations to attend law school, Adyson is using her experiences on and off the field to shape a promising career in law or the FBI.

Adyson's love for soccer began at the age of 5 when she joined a co-ed team to channel her boundless energy and immerse herself in sports. That decision sparked a lifelong passion, and over the years, soccer has become much more than a game—it's been a teacher of discipline, teamwork, and strategic thinking. These skills are ones she plans to carry into her future career, whether as a prosecutor or an FBI agent.

Throughout her time at Penn State Schuylkill, Adyson's dedication has shone both academically and athletically. Her hard work in the classroom earned her a spot on the Dean's List, a testament to her ability to balance the demands of being a student-athlete. Her success is also a reflection of the close-knit and supportive environment she found at Penn State Schuylkill—a place she describes as her "home away from home."

The biggest challenge Adyson Youse faced as an athlete was losing her #1 supporter, her mom. Last year was the hardest year of her life. Her mom had been battling cancer for as long as Adyson could remember, but she always made sure to attend as many of Adyson's games as possible. When the season began in the fall, her mom's health began to decline rapidly. Adyson spoke with Coach Kaylee, who was incredibly understanding and allowed her to spend as much time with her mom as she needed during the season.

Maysen (athletic trainer), Kate (athletic trainer), and Kayla (athletic director)—became her pillars of support, constantly checking in on her and offering a safe space to grieve and heal. Adyson shared how the Penn State Schuylkill athletics family showed her she wasn't alone, lifting her up during her darkest days and reminding her that her mom will always be watching over her and cheering her on.

In early November, her mom was placed on hospice. Balancing soccer, school, and being there for her mom took a significant toll on Adyson's mental health. Throughout this time, Coach Kaylee was there for her and gave her space to talk and process her emotions. On November 18, 2024, her mom passed away while Adyson was home.

That same night, Adyson returned to campus to prepare for classes the next day. The first thing she did was visit Maysen, who made sure she was okay. Adyson credits her teammates, coach, athletic director, and trainers for helping her through those first difficult days. They never let her face the pain alone, always offering their support. While Adyson knows she may never fully overcome the loss, the incredible people around her reminded her that her mom will always be watching over her, cheering her on at every game.

Adyson's approach to balancing academics, athletics, and personal life is centered on self-awareness and prioritization. "It's all about knowing your limits," she says. Whether it's carving out 30 minutes to focus on schoolwork or leaning on her support system when things get overwhelming, Adyson has learned to navigate the demands of her busy life without losing sight of what matters most.

Reflecting on her experience, Adyson expressed immense gratitude for the Penn State Schuylkill athletics family. "The biggest thank you," she says. "I would not have been able to get through this past season without them. " From her coach's understanding and support to her teammates' constant encouragement, Adyson knows she's surrounded by a community that genuinely cares.

For Adyson, being deeply involved in the athletic department has shaped her not just as a player, but as a person. It's taught her the value of hard work, resilience, and pushing beyond limits. Beyond the wins and losses, she cherishes the camaraderie and unity that sports bring. "I've seen how sports can bring people together, and create lasting bonds that go beyond the field" she says.

As Adyson continues her journey, both on the field and in her academic pursuits, her story is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and the lessons learned through sports. With her determination and the unwavering support of her Penn State Schuylkill family, the future is undeniably bright for this standout student-athlete.