Green Valley’s ace O’neill discovers right fit at Xavier
Fleet soccer standout wants to be ‘big fish at smaller school’
The ominous Beep Test awaits Green Valley senior Taylor O’neill at Xavier University, and it’s as daunting mentally as it is physically.
The test is a standard barometer for conditioning and consists of successive 20-meter sprints that intensify over a period of about 15 minutes — or until the athlete can’t continue.
All set to the tone of a beep and until she garners the satisfaction of her coaches.
“I’m pretty fit right now,” she said. “But not that fit.”
Fortunately for O’neill, she has plenty of time to become that fit.
O’neill committed to Xavier last November and is using her senior season to prepare for her collegiate career — and to help the Gators’ soccer team compete in the cutthroat Desert League.
She’s a defender now, but grew up playing forward and has three goals this season while anchoring Green Valley’s back line.
Her speed on the perimeter warrants constant attention from opponents, and she’s skilled enough to capitalize on the slightest mistakes.
“That’s the coolest part about her, is she’s such a threat from anywhere on the field,” Gators coach Catherine Davis said. “She’s really this player that you can put anywhere … and on both sides of the field. She’s strong on the left and the right. It’s wonderful.”
O’neill started playing soccer at age 4 under the direction of her mother and quit for two elementary years before joining the pre-eminent local club team, Heat FC.
She began working with a private coach to supplement practice with her club team, and her recruitment blossomed as she grew within the program. O’neill chose Xavier over Michigan, Campbell and Cal Baptist because of the university’s intimate environment.
“I wanted to be a big fish at a smaller school,” she said with a grin. “It was exciting because I don’t have to worry about it now. Fitness is the biggest thing I’m trying to work for.”
O’neill didn’t play high school soccer until last season because of her club schedule and helped the Gators reach the Class 4A state semifinals. She still plays club soccer and often practices twice a day during the high school season.
“She’s a constant two-a-day player, which is great for getting ready for college,” Davis said.
It’s also great for getting ready for the Beep Test.
Hill to announce Thursday
Clark senior wing Jalen Hill will announce his collegiate decision Thursday during a ceremony at the school, according to Chargers coach Chad Beeten.
The 6-foot-7-inch Hill is a top-100 player nationally and the top senior in Nevada. He led Clark in scoring last season and also the Las Vegas Prospects during Elite Youth Basketball League play in the spring and summer.
Hill has taken official visits to Oklahoma and Texas Christian. He’s a top UNLV target.
Gorman girls ranked nationally
Bishop Gorman’s girls soccer team is No. 8 in USA Today’s national rankings. The Gaels are 9-0 and have outscored opponents by 48 goals.
Contact reporter Sam Gordon at sgordon@reviewjournal.com. Follow @Bysamgordon on Twitter.