Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – Midfielder Gabby Johnson joins an esteemed list of Virginia Tech women's soccer alumni competing at the professional level signing a professional contract with Tindastóll in Iceland.
"Signing a professional contract in Iceland for Tindastóll is one of the greatest things that has ever happened to me," said Gabby Johnson.
"I am beyond grateful for the unwavering support and guidance from my family, friends, coaches, and teammates. I have dreamt of playing professional soccer since I was 8 years old. All of the sacrifices, the memories, the challenges, and the joyful moments brought me to this place. It is incredible to say my dream is coming true.
"The process of going pro is no easy task. The hard work and time commitment extends beyond the dedication to training and time on the field. This opportunity was an all-hands-on-deck task."
Johnson, a graduate transfer from Delaware, made 36 career appearances at Tech, recording three goals and two assists during the 2022 regular season. She was apart of two NCAA tournament berths (2021, 2022) and mid-season top-25 national rankings during the 2021 and 2022 campaigns.
"Working alongside my agent, coaches, Tech alumni, and friends, I was able to reach my dreams," said Johnson. "After completing my college career at Tech in the Fall of 2022, Coach Chugger allowed me to train with the team throughout the Spring of 2023 as I completed my master's degree.
"Since May 2023, I have been training regularly with my agent and coach, Lauryn Hutchinson, in Richmond, Virginia. Her program, the Unknwn Athlete, is home to many current and aspiring professional soccer players. I am fortunate to have consistently played in competitive environments since finishing my collegiate career.
"Playing at Virginia Tech and within the ACC allowed me to compete with and against the best collegiate players in the United States. Virginia Tech creates a competitive environment on and off the field; expectations and standards for Hokie women's soccer players are high, which fully prepared me to enter the professional world.
"I am excited and honored to play alongside Tech legend, Murielle Tiernan. As the Hokies leading all time goal-scorer, I cannot wait to join her at Tindastóll. As a midfielder, having a dominant forward is quite simply the best. Murielle has already given me tips and advice for living in Iceland! I feel more at home going to a new country, knowing I have a Hokie as a teammate!
"I have yet to visit Iceland, but greatly anticipate living in another country while playing the best sport in the world. I have a former teammate from Iceland, Arna Arnthorsdottir, and a few friends who began their professional careers in this country. I have only received positive feedback about the culture, community, and country itself!"
Gallery: (11-10-2023) WSOC: Gabby Johnson