Ann Arbor - From local youth soccer in Michigan to balancing the game with medical school and community outreach, Emily Eitzman’s journey shows how the sport can shape both personal growth and service to others.
For Emily Eitzman, soccer has always been part of her life.
Growing up in Saline, Michigan, she started playing with local youth clubs at an early age. What began as a childhood activity quickly became a constant presence in her life.
“I’ve been playing soccer for as long as I can remember,” she says.
Her early years were spent developing with the Saline Area Soccer Association before moving into more competitive environments, eventually joining teams in Livonia and later AFC Ann Arbor.
By the time she reached high school, she was already competing alongside college players with AFC Ann Arbor during the summer season, an experience that exposed her to a higher level of play early in her career.
Balancing Sport and Academics
While soccer remained a central part of her life, Eitzman always pursued her academic ambitions alongside the game.
She attended the University of Michigan, where she played for the university’s club soccer team while completing her undergraduate degree.
She later continued her studies with a business master’s program and is now pursuing medical school.
Maintaining that balance between athletics and academics required strong discipline.
“Time management is really important,” she explains. “At the start of each week, I plan everything, classes, soccer, and the other things I’m involved in.”
For Emily, the key is prioritizing what matters most.
“I try to remind myself why I’m doing all of these things,” she says. “When you’re passionate about something, you find a way to make time for it.”
A Team That Became a Community
Emily has spent several summers playing with AFC Ann Arbor, a team that has become a meaningful part of her soccer journey.
When she first joined the club, she was still in high school and unsure what to expect.
Most of her teammates were already college athletes, but the environment quickly became welcoming and supportive.
“I had so much fun from the beginning,” she recalls.
Over the years, the club has brought together players from different universities, states, and even countries. That diversity has created a new team dynamic every season.
“One of my favorite parts is meeting new people each summer,” she says. “You build friendships with players from so many different backgrounds.”
Beyond competition, the club also emphasizes community involvement.
Soccer Beyond the Field
Through AFC Ann Arbor, Emily became involved with the Mighty Oak Project, the nonprofit outreach arm connected to the club.
The initiative focuses on using soccer as a tool to provide opportunities for children who might not otherwise have access to the sport.
“That experience really shaped me,” she says.
The outreach work helped reinforce her belief that sports can bring people together and create opportunities far beyond competition.
It’s a philosophy that continues to guide many of the projects she pursues today.
Sharing Stories Through Books
Emily Eitzman has also found a unique way to share life lessons inspired by soccer and family experiences.
She has written two children’s books, both influenced by stories from her grandfather.
The first, Grandpa’s Advice, reflects on his outlook on life while living with Parkinson’s disease. Despite the challenges he faced, he maintained an attitude of gratitude and appreciation for everyday moments.
“That really inspired me,” she says.
Her second book, Rishi and the Banana Leaf Ball, tells a story from her grandfather’s childhood in India. Without access to a soccer ball, he created one out of banana leaves so he could play with friends.
“It’s about perseverance,” Eitzman explains. “If you really want to do something, you find a way.”
A Lifelong Love for the Game
Although she has played other sports—basketball, cross country, and track—soccer always remained her strongest connection.
When the time came to focus on a single sport, the decision felt natural.
“I loved basketball,” she says. “But soccer just felt like part of who I am.”
Part of that connection comes from the simplicity of the game.
All it takes is a ball, an open space, and a few people who want to play.
“It’s a sport that brings people together,” she says.
Inspired by Family
As part of Women’s History Month, Emily Eitzman reflects on the women who have had the greatest influence on her journey.
Her mother and grandmother stand out as the two people who shaped her values the most.
“They’ve always been incredible support systems for me,” she says.
Both have played important roles in encouraging her goals, whether in sports, academics, or community work.
Her mother even helps support the amputee soccer program Eitzman helped establish at Michigan.
“We call her the equipment manager,” she says with a smile.
Playing for the Love of It
Despite the demanding schedule of medical school, Emily continues to play soccer whenever she can.
For her, the game remains a source of joy, connection, and energy.
“I just love playing,” she says.
And after years of balancing athletics, academics, and outreach, that passion for the sport still remains the driving force behind everything she does.
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