Riverton High School senior Hailey Skolmoski has been selected to play in the second annual High School All-American Game. Skolmoski and 42 of the nation’s elite girls’ soccer players will play in Raleigh, N.C. on Dec. 13.

“I am so excited to go and play against the best of the best. It pushes me to be at my best,” Skolmoski said. “I love the competiveness of soccer, and I love the people I have met. The game has taught me a good work ethic and keeps me well rounded. Soccer has helped me in school and in other aspects of my life.”

The All-American players were chosen based on their career high school achievements. The game is sponsored by the National Soccer Coaches Association. Skolmoski and Kyra Fawcett from Woods Cross were the only players selected from Utah.

Skolmoski began playing soccer when she was 5 years old. When she turned 10, she began playing competitive soccer with club travel teams, first with USA soccer and now with the Utah Avalanche.

“Playing with the Avalanche has changed me as a player. Without that team, I would not have been given the opportunities I have for college scholarships and recognition,” Skolmoski said.

As a senior she scored 27 goals, the fourth-highest total in the state, and she netted 58 goals in her high school career. She was selected first team all-state in 2013 and 2014.

“It was great to have her on our team. She is great with the other players and very easy to coach. She has the natural ability and is a hard worker. Hailey has the whole package as a player,” Riverton head coach Paul Moizer said.

“It is not the wins I remember, it is the times I was together with my team in adversity,” Skolmoski said.

Skolmoski also received an academic all-state award. She maintains a 4.0 grade point average.

“I am not sure how I balance school and sports. It must come down to priorities. Sometimes, I have to stay home on Friday nights to get some school work done. I had to learn what is really important. I have learned to give it my all and not give up,” she said.

Skolmoski has committed to continue to play soccer after graduation at the University of Utah. She plans to pursue a degree in elementary education or early childhood development.