Colin Otten '22 Recruiting Profile

     At the age of three, my parents had trouble keeping me off the field of my older sister's co-ed soccer games. Because of my size, I blended in with the other kids, until my parents noticed I had snuck away.  My love of soccer has been a source of stability, even with changes in my life.  I always knew I wanted to play high school soccer, in addition to playing club soccer, for the last nine years. My high school experience has allowed me to expand skill sets by playing different positions and enjoy playing with my school friends. I have grown in my leadership abilities and creative decisions on the field because of my high school team. 

     Playing club soccer, especially at the ECNL and DA levels, has granted me opportunities to compete at high levels, with outstanding players from across the country. I am not usually afraid of a challenge. I feel that I play better when faced with high pressure competition. Soccer has been an important outlet for stress and frustration, even when I am tired from balancing training and school. I realize the schedule of a college athlete is challenging. My years of balancing my soccer schedule with my academics and social life will help prepare me for those challenges. 

     One of the greatest obstacles I have faced was a medical issue the end of middle school into freshman year of high school.  I had many stomach issues that I was struggling with, while maintaining grades and soccer. After a long period of appointments and testing, I was diagnosed with a fructose intolerance, and have been healthy since then. This experience taught me perseverance and discipline, as I had to push through my difficulties and couldn't be careless with my diet. 

     My goals for college are to find a school where I will feel a sense of community. I want a good academic environment, so that I am prepared for the future. I want to continue to improve my organization, time management and study skills. My soccer goals are to continue to push limits and challenge myself to reach my full potential.