Learner Spotlight: Brooks Kiefer Selected to the Olympic Development National Team
At The Forest School, we love celebrating learners who are pursuing big goals with discipline, humility, and joy. Brooks Kiefer, a freshman who has been part of our community since the very beginning, was recently selected to the Olympic Development National Team—an incredible honor that recognizes some of the top 2011 ODP players in the country.
Brooks’ journey is a powerful example of what can happen when passion, consistency, and the right support come together. As a high-level soccer player, he balances rigorous training, travel, tournaments, and academics while continuing to grow both on and off the field. Our flexible model has helped create space for that growth, and Brooks has met that opportunity with maturity, strong habits, and a clear sense of purpose.
We asked Brooks to reflect on this milestone, his journey in soccer, and what it looks like to pursue something he loves at a high level.
Q&A with Brooks Kiefer
What’s your full name, age, grade, and how long have you been at our school?
My name is Brooks Kiefer, I’m 14, and I am a freshman. I’ve been at The Forest School since it started.
In your own words, what does it mean to be selected to the Olympic Development National Team, and what position(s) do you play?
Being selected for this team means being chosen as one of the best 2011 ODP players in the country and being recognized by coaches as someone who has the potential to reach a higher level. It means a lot to me because of all the work I’ve put in over the last couple of years to improve my game. I play attacking mid.
Where were you and what did you do when you found out you’d been selected?
My parents and I went out to dinner, and that’s when I was told. I think I just sat there in shock because I didn’t expect to get chosen, but I was extremely excited.
What’s one thing you want people to know about you beyond soccer?
Since I’m a year ahead in school, my family loves to travel, which I love too. Outside of soccer, one of my favorite things to do is snowboarding.
What’s your favorite pre-game ritual, pump-up song, or “must-do” routine before playing?
Before warming up, I listen to a few songs from my playlist. Right before playing, I put on wrist tape that says Proverbs 3:5, and then my team prays together. Praying is the main thing for me before playing.
When did you first fall in love with soccer, and what hooked you?
Ever since I can remember, I was playing soccer. My parents say I had my foot on a ball since I could walk, and my dad played too, which probably encouraged me.
What’s one moment in your journey that felt like a turning point in your growth as a player?
Around two years ago, I started doing private training, and since then I feel like my game has improved a ton. I’m improving at a much faster rate now, and the results have been showing.
What’s one habit you do consistently that makes the biggest difference?
Private training and mindset have probably made the biggest difference. Training is what sets players apart, because extra work is what a lot of people do not want to do. A growth mindset matters too. Last year, in the biggest tournament of the year, I missed two penalties that led to us losing in pens. Instead of letting that stay in my head, I learned from it. I practiced penalties a lot, and the next time I got one in a game, I made it.
What’s the hardest part of pursuing soccer at a high level right now, and how do you handle it?
The time out of school is probably the hardest part. I’m gone a lot because of tournaments, showcases, and events, and that can make balancing school difficult. I usually handle it by setting deadlines and SMART goals when I get back so I can get back on track.
How has our school’s flexible attendance policy helped you pursue soccer?
There are a lot of examples. One is being able to do private training in the mornings from 9–10 and then come to school in the afternoon. Another is being able to miss a week or more for a tournament or showcase out of town. The attendance policy really helps me gain more experience and more opportunities in front of high-level coaches.
When you miss time for soccer, what helps you stay on track academically?
I set goals for what I need to catch up on and keep working on, and then I set deadlines for when I need to finish each thing. That system helps me see clearly what I need to do and by when.
How have Guides or the school community supported you in a way that really mattered?
The school community has always encouraged me in my soccer journey. The Guides have helped plan a badge plan geared toward being gone a lot, including opening space in my junior and senior years in case more soccer opportunities come up. They’ve been super supportive in every way possible.
Have you created a soccer-related badge or learner-designed course?
Yes. In elementary school, I was pretty far ahead, which led me to create a soccer badge. I designed my own cleats and team jersey, and I also set weekly goals to keep improving at juggling and different drills.
Have apprenticeships, mentors, or experts played a role in your development?
Yes. A lot of coaches have played a role in my development, including team coaches, private coaches, and ODP coaches. Richie Laryea has also had an impact on me. He’s a great role model, and being able to train with him was incredible.
What advice would you give a younger learner who wants to pursue a passion inside and outside of school?
If you want to pursue a passion and you really love it, be consistent with it and focus on improving just a little bit every day. Don’t let failures discourage you, and most importantly, have fun while doing it.
Brooks’ story reflects so much of what we value at The Forest School: ownership, persistence, flexibility, and the freedom to build a life around meaningful work. We’re proud of the way he is pursuing excellence, learning from setbacks, and taking full advantage of the opportunities in front of him. We can’t wait to see where his journey takes him next.