Austin (Zain) Blackwood '16 Recruiting Profile

I started playing soccer at the age of 5 in 2003 and have consistently been selected to the top Predator team at Charlotte Soccer Academy (CSA) every year since I joined the club in 2006.  In the past 6 years, I have primarily played in defense, either as an outside back or center back.    I finished my Spring 2014 with CSA as a finalist in the USYS NC State Cup.  My team and I went undefeated in the CASL Boys Showcase in December 2014.  From there we went on to win the championship in the Disney Soccer Showcase at the end of December 2014.  This is the second Disney Soccer Showcase championship that I have earned in the past three trips to Orlando.  In January 2015, I accepted a DP position with CSA's US Soccer Development Academy team. 

I was also a member of the Ardrey Kell High School soccer team in Fall 2014.  I was a full-time starter and played outside back and center back throughout the season.  My team had a strong showing in the NCHSAA State Tournament with winning the first round game then losing in PK's to the team that went on to become State Champs.  I had the honor of being selected 1st Team All-Conference/All-Region in the competitive SoMeck8 4A conference as a junior.  I was also awarded the Coach's Award from Ardrey Kell High School for best all-around player.