Sandra O'Neill

2027 Center Back

PDA Blue ECNL 2009

5'6" | 4.23 sec 30M

In an all-time run, O’Neill led a PDA Blue backline that conceded just one goal through the entire Playoffs, group stages included, with that one coming in the final. O’Neill looked composed and confident throughout, and when the team needed her most, she made the play of the game to charge down and block a last-second shot headed into the net from six yards out. The center-back has a bright future with the instincts, athleticism, and leadership she displayed. Top Drawer Soccer - ECNL Girls National Finals Best XI

Top Drawer Soccer - ECNL Girls U14 Final: PDA Blue Redemption - Player of the Match

With a two-goal lead early, PDA Blue held on as San Diego Surf dictated the tempo in search of an equalizer. A few injury stoppages halted their momentum until Citlali Reyes scored a consolation goal with a few minutes left in regulation. That goal was the first PDA Blue conceded through the playoffs, displaying just how impressive their defensive fortitude was.

The play of the game was made by MVP and leader of that PDA defensive unit, Sandra O'Neill. With seconds left, Reyes beat two defenders and lined up a shot inside the six that O’Neill charged down with impressive athleticism to secure the 2-1 win.

Player of the Match: Sandra O'Neill, PDA Blue

Academic Accomplishments

Rutgers Preparatory School

GPA: 3.6

Math Level: Algebra II as Freshman

Science Level: Honors Chemistry as Freshman

Rookie of the Year NJ.com & Rutgers Prep 2023

HS Team Rank No. 1 in NJ, No.15 National by United Soccer Coaches

NJ State Champion🏆 2023

Somerset County Champion 🏆 2023

"The defense as a whole played really well all season and Rutgers Prep finished with 15 shutouts, including an intense scoreless game to cap off the season and secure Rutgers Prep’s spot at No. 1."

NJ Final Girls soccer Top 20 for 2023: No. 1 - Rutgers Prep (19-1-1)

"Rutgers Prep is another Somerset County squad who is relying on a rookie for big minutes. Sandra O’Neill is a starter center back and is a key piece of a back line that has recorded six shutouts during an eight-game winning streak to start this fall."

NJ Girls soccer 2023 awards: Rookie of the Year