Meet Our Summer Marketing Intern, Ashley Macfarlane

Hey Everyone! My name is Ashley Macfarlane, and I am one of the NCFC Youth Interns this summer. I assist with the NCFC Youth Marketing team and love all things social media! I am a rising sophomore in college and play Division 1 soccer at The University of North Carolina at Asheville. 


 NCFC Youth has definitely made a significant impact on my life. It has helped shape me into the person I am today. I began my soccer career at the age of five, in the CASL Recreation program. This is where I found my true love of soccer! I continued to play in the Challenge program and played for two different teams over three seasons total. Then, I decided to transition into the Classic/ECNL program. This is where my love of soccer turned into a passion and obsession. I had amazing coaches that helped me develop my skills and learn how to strive for greatness. 


 My journey has taught me so much. I have learned perseverance, consistency, determination and teamwork. I have also been taught to respect and trust the process. I began my soccer career on the lowest team and worked my way up! Working hard to achieve your goals is an incredible life lesson and something NCFC Youth has fostered in so many other players over the years. I believe that it is vital and important when playing any sport to always remember that "everything happens for a reason." My journey was absolutely amazing, and I would not trade it for the world! 


Once I realized that I wanted to continue my career past high school and play collegiately, I consulted with NCFC coaches and staff. NCFC Youth was a great support system throughout the recruiting process, especially during covid when there was less playing and more time to really focus on personal goals and growth. With help from various coaches, I committed to a great school and the perfect program for me! 


NCFC Youth not only gave me the opportunity to train, compete, and develop, but the connections I made within this club are those that I will cherish forever. I met some of my best friends, was introduced to amazing people, and taught by knowledgeable coaches. My experience has been so positive that I decided to return home after my freshman year of college to intern with NCFC Youth. I have the pleasure of working with such an incredible team within the club. In addition, I have been able to help coach and work with younger players in the club for the last five years. I have assisted with the Kickstarters program, Summer Camps, Recruiting events, various volunteer opportunities, tryout clinics, and more! I believe that if you are willing and able that you should try to give back to young players and develop a love of soccer for others in the community. It is a rewarding experience for you and the next generation of players as well! 


Remember.... if you see me at the fields, make sure to swing by and say hello. I am excited to be involved this summer with NCFC Youth and I look forward to more memorable adventures. WORK HARD AND DREAM BIG!!! 


By Georgia Kelley May 8, 2025
NCFC Youth is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Lane Meyer Scholarship , a $2,500 award given to exceptional college-bound, NCFC Youth seniors who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in academics, athletics, friendships, and community service — the pillars that define Lane Meyer's legacy.  Each year, the family of Lane Meyer and the scholarship review committee selects recipients from NCFC Youth applicants who have distinguished themselves on and off the field. This year, three outstanding student-athletes have been selected for their achievements and unwavering dedication to their teams, schools, and communities. Please join us in congratulating the 2025 Lane Meyer Scholarship recipients: Addison Faris High School: Heritage High School NCFC Youth Teams: 07 NCFC WF United Black, ECNL 07 Elite G Future Plans: Addison will attend the University of South Carolina , where she plans to study International Business, Business Management, and/or Chinese Language & Culture. A strong leader and high-achieving student, Addison has balanced academic excellence with competitive play, embodying the values of teamwork and global citizenship. Davis Sauls High School: Wakefield High School NCFC Youth Team: 06 ECNL Elite Future Plans: Davis will be attending UNC Chapel Hill , with plans to study Business. Known for his discipline on the pitch and in the classroom, Davis exemplifies maturity, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning — qualities that will serve him well as he continues in this next chapter. Katie Paulakonis High School: Middle College High School at Durham Tech NCFC Youth Team: 06/07 ECNL G Future Plans: Katie is headed to Bellarmine University , where she intends to major in Exercise Science Sports Performance. A dedicated athlete with a passion for health and wellness, Katie has consistently demonstrated compassion, perseverance, and a drive to make a positive impact in her community. We are incredibly proud of Addison, Davis, and Katie, and we look forward to seeing all they will accomplish in the next chapter of their lives. Congratulations to these inspiring student-athletes — your NCFC Youth family celebrates you! To learn more about Lane Meyer and the Lane Meyer Scholarship, which is awarded each year to at least 1 boy and 1 girl in NCFC Youth Challenge soccer or higher, click here.
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