Deaf Towson Soccer Player Courtney Butlion NIL Achievements and Impact
Overview
Courtney Butlion’s journey through soccer is marked by numerous achievements and challenges.
Starting her collegiate career at Eastern Florida State College, she played a pivotal role in leading the Titans to victory in the 2021 NJCAA Division I National Championship. During her time there, she recorded an impressive tally of 10 goals and 1 assist, cementing her reputation as a skilled forward.
Her performance on the field did not go unnoticed, helping her transition to a higher level of competition.
After her successful stint with the Titans, Butlion transferred to La Salle University, where she continued to make significant contributions as both a midfielder and forward.
During her two seasons with the Explorers, she notched four goals and two assists in 31 games, including 14 starts. Her time at La Salle further honed her skills and prepared her for future endeavors.
Butlion’s determination and talent eventually led her to Towson University.
Despite an earlier encounter where she scored two goals against Towson while playing for La Salle, Towson’s coach, Katherine Vettori, welcomed her without hesitation.
Vettori recognized Butlion’s potential and was eager to have her on the team.
Courtney’s inclusion in the roster aligns with Towson’s ambition to build on their recent success, including a record-setting season with 15 wins and a historic first appearance in the NCAA Tournament.
Courtney’s journey is not just about her soccer skills; it’s also about her overcoming personal challenges.
Born nearly deaf, she has worn hearing aids in both ears since childhood. Despite this, she has not let her hearing impairment deter her from achieving her goals. Instead, she views it as a source of motivation to inspire others.
Her physical prowess complements her mental resilience.
As a junior at Towson, her stats reflect her consistent performance on the field.
The switch from La Salle to Towson was smooth, thanks in part to the support she received from the community and her new teammates.
Former Mercy and Virginia Commonwealth forward Sydney Feiler and former Maryland defender Brooke Birrell also joined Towson’s roster this season, creating a talented lineup ready to compete at a high level.
Moreover, Butlion’s presence in the soccer community extends beyond collegiate play.
She has been a significant addition to the Eagle FC Women’s 2023 USL W Roster, showcasing her skills in the USL W League.
Her time with Eagle FC has been marked by contributions that underline her status as a talented player.
Courtney’s ability to adapt and excel is evident not just in her gameplay but also in her role as a mentor and inspiration.
She has become an advocate for athletes dealing with similar challenges, leveraging her platform to motivate others.
The encouragement she received from Samantha Blumberg of Bagel Works Hunt Valley has been instrumental in this aspect.
The bagel shop’s NIL deal made her a brand ambassador, providing not just financial support but also a platform to share her story and inspire many.
| Team | Role | Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Florida State College | Forward | 10 goals, 1 assist |
| La Salle University | Midfielder/Forward | 4 goals, 2 assists in 31 games |
| Towson University | Midfielder/Forward | Part of a strong roster |
| Eagle FC Women | USL W League Player | Key player in 2023 roster |
Key Stats
- Goals: 10 (Eastern Florida State College), 4 (La Salle University)
- Assists: 1 (Eastern Florida State College), 2 (La Salle University)
- Games Played: 31 (La Salle University)
- Wins: Contributed to record-setting seasons (Eastern Florida State College and Towson)
Courtney Butlion’s journey is a compelling story of overcoming personal and professional obstacles to achieve success on and off the field.
Her ability to inspire and lead underscores her contributions to the teams she has been a part of, making her a remarkable figure in women’s soccer.