Emma Duval - Playing with Purpose

Emma Duval, a midfielder at Tennessee, has stood out throughout her career for the impact she has had both on and off the field. A pillar in the classroom and the community, Emma looks to use her gifts to give back. As she has overcome trials and setbacks, she credits her faith for leading her to where she is today.

A native of Illinois, Emma’s high school years at Plainfield North High School were marked by academic excellence and athletic achievements. Emma played club soccer for Eclipse Select SC, earning recognition as a member of the 2019 and 2020 ECNL All-Conference team. While starring on the field, Emma also maintained an impressive 4.8 GPA in the classroom. As she prepared to make a decision on where to pursue her education and soccer career, she says she turned to faith.

“Faith influences my soccer career in so many different ways. During the beginning of the recruiting process, I wasn’t sure where I wanted to go to school. I prayed about it, and God answered me by blessing me with the University of Tennessee.”

For Emma, Tennessee was not just the perfect fit for soccer; it was also a place where she felt she could grow as a person too. She emphasizes the significance of the community of athletes at the university and says that the people there have been pivotal in making her who she is today.

“Tennessee is perfect for me, obviously in the soccer aspect, but also the Christian community of athletes is full of so many amazing people.”

Emma says her faith is paramount throughout her life both on and off the field. Before every game, she takes a moment to say a prayer, acknowledging the role of faith in her success. She attributes everything she has achieved on the soccer field to her faith, expressing gratitude in every situation.

“I owe everything I have been able to accomplish to Him. I’m so grateful he put soccer in my life, and without the resources and mindset he has blessed me with, I wouldn’t be who I am nor where I am.”

Before beginning her freshman year at UT, Emma faced a significant setback – a torn ACL during high school soccer. Despite the physical pain and emotional devastation, Emma turned to her faith to find strength. Recalling the experience, she says that she learned to put her trust in God even when it may not all make sense.

“I’ve learned that faith is trusting God even when you don’t understand his plan for you. I find peace in knowing God chose this to happen to me and his plan will always prevail. I can’t wait to be back on the field soon and I look forward to glorify God doing so!”

Emma Duval’s journey hasn’t been without it’s challenges, but Emma looks back with gratitude knowing they have shaped her into who she is today. Her reliance on faith has not only guided her choices but has also provided strength and resilience in the face of adversity. As she continues her soccer career at the University of Tennessee, Emma’s story serves as an inspiration to athletes seeking purpose and meaning beyond the field – a journey marked by faith, perseverance, and gratitude.