Kate Giglio, senior co-captain and center-back for the Westfield High School girls soccer team, announced her commitment to Hamilton College on Aug. 10 via Instagram.
Throughout her WHS soccer career, Giglio has achieved second team all county recognition and North 2, Group 4 recognition, despite not participating her freshman year and facing an injury for most of her junior season. She was also on the 21-22’ state championship team, where the Blue Devils held a record of 21-0-1, beating Freehold Township in their final game.
“It was very unexpected for my first year, but it was also a really good season and I hope to maybe experience that in college,” said Giglio regarding her first varsity season.
Giglio will join Hamilton next fall, competing for their Division III soccer team. Hamilton resides in the New England Small College Athletic Conference and finished last season with a 7-4-4 record.
Hamilton, located in Clinton, NY, is a private liberal arts school founded in 1793 under the name Hamilton Oneida Academy. With an acceptance rate of 11.8%, Hamilton is a very competitive and academically strong school.
“I wanted a school to meet a good academic rigor and be in a good location. That’s why I chose Hamilton. It’s a community and everyone helps each other out,” Giglio explained.
Emma Kelesoglu, one of Giglio’s prior teammates, Westfield 2023 graduate, and Hamilton midfielder, said, “I am super excited to play with Kate again and am looking forward to the next level and energy that college brings for her.”
Giglio’s decision came down to Hamilton, despite interest from Case Western, John Hopkins and Washington and Lee as she will have the opportunity to “play at a higher level and see the competition change.”
Before she joins the Alex’s, Giglio will have one final season as a Blue Devil, looking to lead the team to another state championship.
