She stood on the sidelines, eyes locked onto the field, looking for one person. 

Soccer player Macray Marchione grew up wanting to do whatever her brother did. He started playing soccer, so she started playing soccer. When he made a play on the field, she wanted to make the same play. Eventually, his presence became a deciding factor when committing to the University of Richmond (U of R). 

“My brother lives in Virginia, so I’m excited to be next to [him],” Macray said. “I loved how he played, and I wanted to mimic it and be just like him.”

Macray was debating between Dartmouth University and U of R. After visiting both campuses, she said the amount of care she received from U of R was unparalleled. 

“The girls were welcoming [and] uplifting,” Macray said. “Everyone cared for each other. The coaching staff is very personable. Even though I’m not there right now, they’re still checking in and seeing how I’m doing.” 

Macray plans to pursue a major in biochemistry to become a chemist in the future. She spent two years in the recruitment process, while playing on varsity the past three years. 

“I’m excited for the academics and athletics [at Richmond,]” Macray said. “There are highs and lows in the recruiting process. Not every coach is going to email you back, not every coach is going to show interest in you, but there’s someone out there, and there’s a home that you will belong to.”