Michael Hilbert, a senior at Ponte Vedra High School, has been named the ITG Next 2022 Northeast Florida Male Soccer Player of the Year, presented by Wolfson Children’s Hospital, Baptist Health, and the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute.
Hilbert began playing soccer at a young age and developed a talent and passion for the sport over the years.
“I got into soccer when I was very young; I was 3 years old,” said Hilbert. “I have been playing my whole life because my brother plays. … I played with him my whole life. I got pretty good and kept playing.”
The Sharks won their respective District 3-6A championships two days in a row, and Hilbert closed out the season on a good note, making his impact on the field.
The team defeated Pensacola Booker T. Washington 3-1 in a Class 6A regional quarterfinal tilt. Hilbert scored, giving the Sharks a 2-1 lead, making his third goal of the season. Things were looking good for the Sharks. They made it to the semifinals but lost to Doral Academy by a score of 4-2. Hilbert said it was a good season nonetheless.
“Senior season was really good,” said Hilbert. “We all teamed up. We had some secret plays that we made in practice. It was fun overall. We made it to the semifinals. We got knocked out in Miami. It was a tough ride back.”
He expressed gratitude for his teammates from this season and throughout his high school soccer career. He is inspired by his peers, who encourage and motivate him to be better.
“I will definitely miss the team the most,” said Hilbert. “Great group of guys. Very fun here. Your teammates help you the most. They’re the ones you make the connections with. You need good chemistry with them.”
Hilbert has been influenced by coaches over the years who have helped shape him into the player he is today. Ponte Vedra has a legacy of impactful coaching, and Hilbert was recommended as a top player in Jacksonville by coach Daniel Villarreal.
“It makes me feel very proud that someone that mentored me my whole life recommended me,” said Hilbert.
He believes that staying on top of academics is extremely important for athletes.
“You have to have good grades to play,” said Hilbert. “You don’t want that lurking in your head all the time at practice and during games.”
Hilbert will be attending the University of Florida with an intended major in business. The school does not have a soccer team, so he plans to continue his passion for the sport through club soccer. He hopes to inspire change and bring soccer to the university.
He advises upcoming soccer players to take practice seriously and foster relationships along the way.
“Enjoy every practice,” said Hilbert. “Practice is the best part. Make friends, make connections, and have fun.”
