Personal Statement
As a student athlete, I am both a student in the classroom and a student of the game. I pride myself on my strong work ethic on and off the field. My teachers and coaches expect a lot from me, but I expect even more of myself. I believe that the rewards you reap are only equivalent to the effort you sow. More than any other sport I know, soccer is both a mental and physical game. But simply working hard is not enough. To be a great soccer player, it is critical to play smart. A few years ago, my coach nicknamed me “odyssey” (a reference to the Odyssey of the Mind academic competition I had won). He respected how well I understood the subtle nuances of the game and how I played with my head as much as my body. Finally, I believe a good team plays for each other. Soccer is a team sport, and selflessness is not only a way to improve the team but a way to show dedication and heart. I play by these values every time I step on the pitch.