Follow along this February as Auburn soccer catches up with some of its most notable and successful alumnae as we celebrate Black History Month. Our final spotlight is on none other than recent graduate, Hailey Whitaker. In five seasons on The Plains, Whitaker logged over 6,500 minutes while playing in 94 matches, the second-highest total in program history.
Q: Why did you choose to continue your career at Auburn?
Whitaker: Auburn felt special to me as soon as I stepped on campus! Not only is it beautiful, but it feels like home. Everyone says it, but it's the people that make it so worth coming here. I felt welcomed and appreciated throughout my whole time at Auburn.
Q: How would you describe your experience in a single word?
Whitaker: Impactful
Q: What did it mean for you to be a role model of a black student–athlete succeeding at the highest level?
Whitaker: It meant the world to me. I love being in this role with the platform I had and continue to have because growing up I didn't see many girls doing what I am doing and that look like me on social media or on TV. I want all girls, but especially other girls of color to be able to dream big and really understand that anything is possible if you put your mind to it!
Q: What is your favorite memory from your time in college?
Whitaker: My favorite memory is always when I left my phone in Auburn during one of our longest away trips to play Louisville and ODU my junior year. I had fun messing with everyone on the seven-hour bus ride with no wifi or phone. At the hotel I would call Coach on my iPad to ask her random questions. I also have about 30 pictures of me planking in random spots in Kentucky and Virginia from that weekend. Good times.
Q: What did you earn your degree in and what are you up to now?
Whitaker: I have a degree in organismal biology (pre-vet) with a minor in Spanish. I have applied and interviewed for grad schools in genetics counseling since graduating, but as of now, I have decided to keep playing soccer professionally.
Q: How are you still involved with the game of soccer?
Whitaker: I am currently playing professionally in the top division in Finland!
Q: What was it like juggling soccer, school and Greek life?
Whitaker: It was difficult at first, but it got better after learning how to master time management. There were many things I wanted to be a part of and achieve while in school, so I was determined to be able to do all I could without sacrificing my main priorities. It worked out well in the end.
Q: What would you consider your biggest accomplishment during your career?
Whitaker: I would say finding a new position that I love. I came in thinking I wasn't going to be anything else but a forward, but after trying and embracing the outside back role, I was able to be more impactful and consistent. Now, I am playing outside back overseas, so I wouldn't be here without being open-minded.
Q: What makes Auburn soccer special?
Whitaker: The bonds that I have made are so special and meaningful to me. Auburn soccer is like a big family where everyone just wants to see you succeed and be the best you can be.
Q: What advice would you give to current and future members of the program?
Whitaker: Play with no regrets and with confidence. Also, embrace the journey and all the resources too. We are very spoiled at Auburn with everything student-athletes get and have access to to help us succeed, so just take advantage of it all!
Q: What is your legacy? What do you want people to remember about Hailey?
Whitaker: I would like for people to remember me as a passionate player, a strong leader and an even better friend and teammate.
Q: Is there anything else you'd like to add regarding your time as a black student-athlete at Auburn?
Whitaker: My experiences as a black student-athlete at Auburn University and with Auburn soccer both have been great. I always felt seen, heard and respected. I never expected anything less being at Auburn. It's just a great community of people. Long live Bean!