Christian Nielsen '17 Recruiting Profile

My name is Christian Nielsen. I am currently a sophomore at Evanston Township High School where I am a two-sport athlete, Football as well as Track and Field.  As with most children, my interest in sports began at a young age.  I was a member of a soccer team, little league baseball, and Jr. Wildkits football.  It was during my three years with the Jr. Wildkits that further developed my desire to play football.   Like many football players, I also have an aspiration to play on a college level.  This is where I can continue to expand by knowledge, skills and stamina to be the best I can be on and off the field.  Often I hear comments from my peers who ask why I spend so much time on the practice field and in the weight room.  This may not be clear to them but it is crystal clear to me.  It’s what I have to do!  It is extremely important for me to concentrate on my goals, stay focused and work hard.  One of my former coaches always said,  “Dreams and dedication are a powerful combination.” I have lived by this quote majority of my life. During my freshman year, I played on the sophomore football team as a starting center in all nine games. My coaches realized my potential and gave me a chance to display my skills. As my skills continued to progress, at the end of the season, I was placed on the Varsity Team for the state playoffs to gain playoff experience as an underclassman and to back up a two-year varsity starter.  During the off-season, I worked diligently in the weight room to improve for the following season.  This is not an easy task with all that is required from my parents and teachers during the school year. My ability to balance these expectations is what keeps me on track with my personal and academic goals.  I continued to excel as a freshman on the Track and Field team in Shot Put by consistently improving my throwing distance.  This activity provides continuity in the development of my strength and endurance necessary for this position as well as football. My diligence in self-improvement is woven throughout my academic endeavors.  Balancing school and sports can be challenging but must be achieved for me to reach my goals.  I have attained Honor Roll status for the past five consecutive years, became an Honor Roll Society member in my freshman year, completed substantial community service hours and excelled within the classroom as a leader among my peers. I believe it is important to give back to the community as a way to thank those who paved the way for me, as well as for me to set an example for those who may follow in my footsteps.  While in fourth grade, I was one of two students selected as a member of the Justin Wynn Leadership Academy.  This honor allows me to be supportive through various community service activities. I believe consistent training and dedication is key to success. Playing at the college will give me the perfect opportunity to continue my success as a valuable community member.