KCHS senior soccer player Culhane signs with University of Tennessee

Kathryn Culhane, a senior at Knoxville Catholic, has made a verbal commitment to continue her soccer career at the collegiate level with the University of Tennessee.

She credits her decision to become a Lady Vol to the opportunity to play under the team’s new head coach, Bryan Pensky.

“I absolutely love [Pensky],” Kathryn told the Knoxville News Sentinel. “He’s the exact type of person I could see myself playing for. I’m just excited that it all worked out that way, and he’s a great coach and I can’t wait to play for him.”

Kathryn attended a camp at UT in February, and Mr. Pensky scouted her a few weeks later while she was playing for her club team, FC Alliance. Kathryn committed to the Lady Vols before the start of summer, the News Sentinel reported. She can focus on her senior season instead of worrying about the recruiting process, the newspaper reported.

“It’s definitely relaxing,” Kathryn told the News Sentinel of making her college decision. “I know that I have to push myself to get better going into college, but it’s a relief to know where I’m going to go.”

Kathryn plays outside back but was recruited by UT for her versatility in playing defense and midfield.

In her sophomore season with KCHS in 2010, Kathryn had 12 goals and 11 assists and was selected to the PrepXtra first team. That year’s Knoxville Catholic team finished 18-4-3 and made the Class AAA state finals.

Kathryn was unable to play her junior year because of an ACL tear on April 2, 2011. She was able to resume play with the club season in fall 2011.

Kathryn attributes her quick recovery to physical therapy, training, and her faith.

“This injury was devastating, but I always knew this was part of God’s plan for me,” she said. “I can honestly say that I am stronger player now.”

 

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