Aris Catania '17 Recruiting Profile

I was a soccer player for all of my life, like most kids who are kicking these days. Although most of them started as freshmen in high school, or even eighth grade, I on the other hand started in my senior year. Some say it was too late, I see it as the beginning of a something that comes naturally. My journey started off last April at a kicking camp using a 2 inch tee, struggling of course. My form was off and I wasn't planting my foot in the right spot. I also had trouble driving through the ball. After that first camp, I worked hard in the offseason at least 4-5 times a week, going on the field after school with a couple buddies of mine and kicking field goals. I also went to some smaller instructors to tune up my skills. In this short amount of time, I improved my technique and realized that I didn't need to use a tee at all. I kicked better off the ground. So this is how I began my senior season, kicking off the ground on my varsity football team. Throughout the season, unfortunately, my coach only used me to kick two field goals; one from 45 yards and one from 29. I put both kicks through the uprights with about 10-15 extra yards behind. Personally I think that's a big improvement in 5 months considering that I couldn't even hit a 40 yard kick back in April. 

I can only grow from here; increasing leg strength and working on consistency in my form and follow through. One of my biggest strengths is the ability to block out everything and remain focused. I rarely panic nor feel the pressure on the field. Off the field I am an above average student. I finished my junior year of high school with a 3.5 GPA and was recognized for it. I am constantly volunteering at my church, doing service projects and I even help out with the Special Olympics every year. I have been working as a soccer referee since I was 13 years old for the Schaumburg Athletic Association and this past summer at Pirates Cove at Elk Grove Park District. I really enjoy working with young kids who see me as a positive role model. Personally, I think I'm a well rounded individual who shows potential and commitment. I'm not sure yet what I want to pursue as a major or career, but hopefully after my first couple of years of college, I will figure out what it is. I'm excited to continue the rest of my journey.