A composed and versatile presence in midfield, Violet Hipkin has quietly built an impressive soccer résumé across university and semi-professional levels in Ontario. Originally from Peterborough, Ontario, Hipkin has developed into a reliable two-way midfielder whose ability to influence play at both ends of the pitch has made her a valuable contributor wherever she has played.

Hipkin spent her collegiate career with the women’s program at Trent University during her undergrad years (2018-2022), taking the role of a co-captain during her last season, and then at the University of Guelph, competing for the Guelph Gryphons women's soccer in Ontario University Athletics. During the 2023 season, she earned recognition as an OUA West Second Team All-Star, reflecting her versatility in the centre of the pitch, where she contributed both defensively and offensively while helping stabilize the Gryphons' midfield.

Beyond the university game, Hipkin has also made an impact in League1 Ontario (now Ontario Premier League) with Darby FC (now called Whitby FC) from 2019 to 2023 and more recently, with Guelph United FC. After joining the club in 2024, she quickly became a regular presence in the lineup, appearing in 18 matches and scoring four goals during the season. Her ability to control tempo, connect passes, and support the attack makes her an ideal fit for the fast-paced indoor environment with FC Berlin, where her experience and soccer IQ continue to shine.

You grew up in Peterborough; how did your soccer journey begin there?
Growing up, I was a multi-sport athlete, playing a lot of hockey and soccer and every sport in between. As the youngest sibling, I was exposed to sports early and was born with a competitive mindset that loved the challenge of keeping up with my siblings. It was common to see me at the local park playing hockey or soccer for hours with my older brother and his friends, or with my neighbours.

What were the key moments or coaches that helped shape your development as a player?
As a youth player, I played for Peterborough City and stayed with this close-knit team for my entire childhood. The coach was very supportive of our skilled development, allowing us to try things and make mistakes. As a youth player, my love for soccer and all things athletic grew and grew, and it became my passion.

What did it mean to represent the University of Guelph and compete in the OUA?
I loved representing both Trent University and the University of Guelph and competing in the OUA. Playing in my undergrad in the OUA EAST and then throughout my graduate studies in the OUA West allowed me to play in both divisions of the OUA and have different experiences. Trent University had a small-school feel and allowed me to really develop my technical skills. UofG has an amazing environment that really pushed me to be the best version of myself. I felt like it allowed me to grow a lot as a person and really pushed me as a player. The environments and coaches at both schools really stood out to me, and I always felt supported and valued.

Being named an OUA Second Team All-Star is a significant recognition; what do you remember most about that season?
The season I was named as an OUA Second Team All-Star was one of my favourite seasons. My role on the team shifted from a winger to more of an attacking midfielder. I felt like I was able to play with my heart on my sleeve. The thing that I remember the most from that season was how much we collaborated and lifted each other. There was a level of excitement and joy that I felt with each training session, and I felt like those emotions transferred to each game.

You have been described as a versatile midfielder who contributes on both sides of the ball; how would you describe your playing style?
I would describe my playing style as relentless, ‘The Little Engine That Could’. I love working hard and winning balls that others don’t think I will be able to win. I think my background as a hockey player as a child has developed my playing style into a gritty, fast-paced player. I enjoy putting the team first and elevating through work ethic, composure, and commitment to the game.

What do you enjoy most about playing in the centre of the pitch?
I love playing in the middle of the pitch as I find I can get on the ball a lot and have opportunities to win the ball back and keep the intensity high.

You have experience in League1 Ontario with Guelph United; how has that environment helped you grow as a player?
I started playing in League1 with Darby FC in 2019. My coaches there put a lot of effort into developing me. Playing at this level has increased my speed of play, decision-making, and confidence. I’m always up for a challenge, and the environment at Guelph United has allowed for continuous growth. I am constantly surrounded by top players and coaches who are pushing me every session. I thrive in that environment. I’m really thankful for the coaches I have had in League1 who have helped push me to be a better person and player.

What attracted you to the opportunity to play with FC Berlin?
One thing that attracted me to the opportunity to play with FC Berlin was the talent they recruited. The players they brought in are all top players that I have played with or against over the past few years. I thought it would be a great team to challenge me. Also, I was interested in playing in the MASL as it brings out the inner hockey in me.

Indoor soccer can be very different from the outdoor game; what adjustments do you need to make as a midfielder?
In the indoor game, the biggest adjustment I need to make is reading the boards. When defending, pushing a player out wide isn’t as effective when they have boards to help get them out of a situation. I have found I need to read the play off the boards and know when to step to limit players’ options.

What do you enjoy most about the speed and intensity of indoor soccer?
I enjoy the speed of the game and how you really need to know your surroundings. The field is small, so mistakes can quickly lead to goals. I love the speed of the transitions and how you always need to be on your toes.

What has impressed you the most about the culture at FC Berlin?
I am impressed with the passion the club portrays from the coaches all the way to the players. You can tell everyone involved with the club truly loves soccer and their involvement in the club.

What goals do you have for yourself and the team moving forward?
I really want our team to show up to Nationals with the intention to win one game at a time. With the tournament setup, it just takes one win to keep us in. A goal for myself is to keep the intensity high and to support my team in any way that I can.