09/08/2026
Eva Smith, who is a member of the two-time state champion PLP Soccer team, missed the first few weeks of school due to her training schedule...with the Venezuelan Soccer Federation, where she was training with their U17 national team!
Eva emailed the Venezuelan Soccer Federation and sent them her highlight film. They then said they were interested in watching her play and invited her to be evaluated in mid August. The evaluation went so well that they asked for her to train another week with the official U17 Venezuelan National Selection players. Eva is now eligible to play in future events throughout the year, if selected.
Her invitation to play with the team also gave her mom, PLP Spanish teacher, Sra. Zeron-Smith, the opportunity to return to Venezuela, after being away for 13 years.
"Most athletes only think about college being the next level, but Eva is looking to represent her family's heritage in playing through Venezuela's national program," said Varsity Soccer Head Coach, Paul Ebenhoeh.
"These goals and dreams started two years ago when our beloved captain Avery Garrett graduated. Eva took it upon herself to help fill that void to get us to another State Championship. She upgraded her training and refocused her life to become the best student-athlete."
Eva has put herself on a college-like daily schedule with workouts, nutrition, classes, and training. Her speed, explosiveness, and physicality set her up for success.
"From her progress just this past year, her potential is infinite and puts dreams within grasp," Coach Ebenhoeh said. "I wouldn't be surprised if she committed to a Division 1 college and made the Venezuelan's national team for a World Cup appearance."
