Hillfield Strathallan student Alyssa DeSantis has signed a scholarship offer with the acclaimed Florida Atlantic NCAA Division I soccer program for the fall season.

DeSantis’ soccer journey started when she was only four, playing in the Saltfleet GoAhead Soccer Club. She quickly developed a skill level that earned her a spot playing with the boys. At age 10, she transferred to the Major Junior League playing with girls several years older. Yet again she proved to be skilled beyond her years and led the league in scoring.

Registered at Hillfield Strathallan College, DeSantis continued to reign supreme on the soccer pitch.

She was named MVP of the school’s junior soccer team every year from 2007 to 2011 and then MVP of the senior team in 2012 and 2013.

DeSantis is a versatile player, with superior skill as both a midfielder and forward and even found time to play other sports.

Hillfield Strathallan College head Mark Ayotte called DeSantis a great leader, teammate and friend.

“I think what I appreciate most about Alyssa is that, obviously, she is an incredibly talented and successful soccer player, but she has remained so humble and grounded in her time at HSC. She is a true success story and a great kid,” he said.

At age 12, DeSantis was recognized by the Burlington Soccer Association. She flourished in her five years with the Burlington Bayhawks, helping the team compile a record of 69 wins, seven ties and 12 losses. In 2012, the Bayhawks won three major tournaments, becoming Ontario and National Cup Champions and Ontario Youth Soccer League champions. In 2013, DeSantis helped her team win the CASL tournament, which includes girls from across Canada and the U.S.

Her coach Dino Colarossi called DeSantis’ play electric.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure to coach Alyssa. On the field, she plays with tremendous speed and skill making dynamic plays on offence for the team. Off the field, her personality is just as dynamic, she is always positive and energetic which makes her a great teammate and a joy to coach. She is a wonderful young lady and I’m very proud of her achievements and her success.”