The Northshore Youth Soccer Association (NYSA) recently announced their 2014 College Scholarship recipients.

Upcoming Class of 2014 graduates, McKenzie Mills and Jacob Hoogerwerf, each received $1,000 scholarships. Applications were accepted from graduating high school seniors who planned to enter an accredited institution of higher learning during the 2014-2015 academic year. Two winners were selected based on their positive involvement and commitment to the NYSA program and the community, as well as their participation in the NYSA coaching, referee and other programs. Mills and Hoogerwerf were honored for their outstanding contributions to their schools and community, along with success on the soccer field and in their academic achievements.

Mills, a Cedar Park Christian High School senior, has played on her FC Alliance premier team for the past seven years, having served as captain for the last three. She’s also assisted several coaches with younger aged teams in training, mentoring and demonstrating skills.

In addition to her NYSA and school sports activities, Mills has participated in numerous community service activities with The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Royal Family Kids Camp, and the National Honor Society with projects supporting fresh water wells in foreign countries and providing care packages for soldiers and the homeless in our community. Mills plans on putting her referee license to good use this summer and is preparing for her nursing studies this fall at Washington State University.

Hoogerwerf, a Woodinville High School senior, has played recreational soccer with NYSA for thirteen years. He began his refereeing career with NYSA also currently holding a grade 8 license, with plans to upgrade to grade 7 in the near future. Twice nominated for the Washington Youth Soccer Referee of the Year Award, Hoogerwerf has been involved in numerous tournaments and state championship games. Academically, he has been devoted to business programs and competitions through DECA and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). In addition he is an annual participant in the Relay for Life and has participated in numerous community service activities through the National Honor Society. Hoogerwerf will be attending the University of Washington in the fall working toward a degree in International Business.

The Northshore Youth Soccer Association awards scholarships annually and supports teams in Bothell, Woodinville and Kenmore. Since it’s founding, the NYSA has grown to include several programs at different skill levels, representing thousands of athletes ages six to 19.