The Athlete Rachael Shields

My name is Rachael Shields and I am 17 years old. My life has been characterized by experiences on the farm, and the work ethic that comes along with it. I’ve learned to appreciate the outdoors and wide-open spaces; some of my favorite activities include skiing, snowboarding, geocaching, and playing with my dogs. In addition, I’ve spent all 4 years of high school on the Varsity Cross Country and Soccer teams. As far as soccer goes, I’m extremely passionate about my current position as goalkeeper. In order to be the best I can be, I train every chance I can get all year round. And in Michigan, where the weather is unpredictable, that can sometimes be difficult. So when the weather isn’t cooperating, outdoors I love reading, drawing, and working on computers. My love of outdoors also includes a love of travel. I jump at the chance of a road trip. Some of my favorite family trips have included; Hawaii, Maine, California, Colorado, and South Dakota.
Farm life has also exposed me to 4-H and FFA. In 4-H, I learned showmanship, commitment, hard work, and much about responsibility. I showed steers, hogs, sheep, rabbit, and dogs. I’ve showed animals for 6 years and I would have to say my favorite experiences in 4-H would have to be showing my dog, Mocha. With Mocha, I was able to earn Grand Champion Agility Dog and Reserve Champion Dog Showman. Over the years I’ve also earned Champion Market Ewe, Champion Sheep Showman, and 1st place Market Steer.
In FFA, I held several officer positions and participated in many community volunteer activities. Officer positions have included: Historian, Sentinel, and Reporter. Some Volunteer activities I’ve done include: Christmas Basket Food Drive, Wise Farm Clean-Up, Pumpkin Carving, and Spring BBQ and Plant Sale. In FFA I’ve also participated in State 3 years in a row for Prepared Public Speaking. Not only did I learn a lot of self-confidence, I learned research and interpersonal skills as well. This is definitely something that