They kept it professional.
Ella Attaway and Abby Kilman waved at each other with no further interaction ahead of their college debuts on opposite sidelines with Georgia State and UT-Chattanooga. The two freshmen and former Buford teammates played to a 2-2 draw Thursday at the GSU Soccer Complex. Attaway officially opened her career after assisting on a goal during the scrimmage.
“It was really weird because we played together for a really long time,” said Kilman, Buford’s former captain in her senior season. “It was fun to see how we progressed as players and got to the next players, even if we’re doing it separately.”‘
The pair of Buford graduates ended their high school tenures in May. They arrived at their schools in July, a month before the academic calendar began, to delve into the sport. The short intermission left them admittedly exhausted. They stood eager to go, however, see where college soccer could take them.
Attaway and Kilman played together since middle school, developing through Buford, playing on club teams and starring for four years under head coach Megan Hill. After observing the two players’ relationship for a number of years, Hill reiterated that they “led in their own unique way” by instilling a strong work ethic in the younger players. Attaway remembered it in every facet including weight room sessions and sprint drills.
“We always pushed each other to be the best, and that doesn’t change from high school to college,” Kilman said. “Everybody wants to be the best version of themselves.”
Over their four years, Buford lost six games during the pair’s four-year tenure. Their favorite moment might’ve led to heartbreak, but the state championship loss — Buford’s first appearance in quite some time — to West Forsyth in penalty kicks brought unforgettable moments.
As they’ve moved on and started a new chapter, Attaway, Kilman and the other Wolves who might reunite in the future can always reminisce. Addison Attaway, Ella’s sister, and Buford graduate Alli Treadwell prepare to meet up on opposite sidelines on Aug. 18.
“That was an incredible moment to share,” Attaway said of the state title game. “Our seven years together built up to that moment. It made it surreal and incredible.
By game’s end, Attaway and Kilman had the opportunity to truly catch up. The professionalism turned into a warm embrace. From now on, they’ll continue connecting after the schedule oddity of playing against each other to open the next stage.
“(We will keep up through) social media,” Attaway said. “and a lot of texts.”
FEATURED PHOTO: Jett Parker — Georgia State Athletics
