Balancing the rigorous NC School of International Studies magnet program along with high-level Girls Academy League soccer requires discipline and focus. Magnet junior London Roby (14) works to navigate both with ease, creating an exemplary academic and athletic profile during her high school career. Roby’s ability to balance such demanding commitments sets her apart as both a student and an athlete.
“I first got into soccer when I was around five or six. I bounced from sport to sport, playing whatever my mom put me in. I started with tennis and baseball, but neither stuck. When I joined a [soccer] rec league and met one of my closest friends there, I fell in love with the game,” Roby said.
Over the years, Roby’s love for soccer turned into a commitment, shaping her role as a key player for her club and high school teams. The intensity of the Girls Academy sharpened her skills as the tempered environment of high school ball allowed her to enjoy the game. Roby understands the value of high school soccer in perfecting her craft, allowing her to excel within her club team. The wins and losses she experienced with the Lady Warriors over the past two years continue to build extreme tenacity within her.
Roby’s adaptability on the field establishes her as a valuable asset on any team. Roby plays primarily as a center back for her club, but rotates between holding mid, attacking mid and center back for the Lady Warriors. Displaying her versatility, she first entered the team as a winger and striker; however, head coach Christina (Ti) Wilson saw unique potential in her. Wilson placed her at center back with almost zero experience, but Roby’s adaptability shone and allowed her to thrive in the new position. That adaptability transcends soccer, showing up in her ability to balance a demanding academic schedule. Between three weekly practices, weekend games, gym sessions and magnet workload, Roby learned to maximize every minute of her day.
“This year’s magnet schedule has been the toughest. I try to finish work in class, but if I can’t, I’ll squeeze it in during the short window between school and practice. I utilize the weekend the most to catch up on work since all I have is a game, and then the rest of the day to myself,” Roby said.
Over the past two years, Roby successfully juggled soccer and academics, maintaining a strong 4.2 grade point average (GPA). As impressive as her long-standing achievement sounds, she notes that the busy schedule leaves little room for personal time — yet she continues to manage the demands of both school and athletics.
Looking to the future, Roby aims for a top-five bracket placement on her club team, averaging two goals per game. Additionally, she strives to become an outspoken and confident contributor to the team, adding to her versatility and skill. As for the high school season, she plans to push her team toward the first round of the state playoffs and beyond.
For Roby, ambition lies in gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility. She credits her parents for shaping her work ethic and drive to succeed, both academically and athletically. Their constant support, combined with her own high standards, keeps her focused even when balancing the challenges of school and soccer.
“My parents are my biggest motivators. I hate performing below my best because I feel like I’m letting them down. They’ve always believed in me and pushed me to do my best in school and on the field. They have been my biggest supporters in life and have believed in me since day one,” Roby said.
Roby plans to excel in academics and athletics as she enters the next stage of her career. She sees herself balancing both activities at the collegiate level, planning to major in biochemistry and eventually attend medical school to practice orthopedics. As she continues to push her limits both on the field and in the classroom, Roby embodies the true meaning of a strong student athlete.
