Joshua Shepherd '23 Recruiting Profile

I have been playing soccer since I was 5 years old and have always enjoyed the sport. I believe that I am a very strong candidate because of my love and passion for the game. I have committed to it in every aspect possible, including going to the gym, utilizing sports psychology and of course going out for extra sessions to improve as much as I can. I am also a major fan of the sport and enjoy watching the top 5 leagues each weekend and the Champions League when it's on. Watching the best players and teams play has not only helped my knowledge of the sport tactically, but has also motivated me even more to improve and be the best player I can be. 

I have multiple goals that I hope to attain through university. Academically, I plan to graduate with a degree in business/commerce, or media as I have always been interested in those fields and feel that they create successful pathways for my career after soccer. Athletically, I have always and would still love to play soccer professionally. This includes playing in the MLS and any of England's top four leagues. Also, I'd love to play for the Canadian National Team sometime in the future, specifically the 2026 World Cup in North America in which I am fully confident could happen. I am a very passionate supporter of the team and would love to be apart of it someday.

There are a lot of factors that separate me from other recruits, one of them being my academics which I have a very strong dedication towards. I spend lots of time ensuring my work is of the quality that it needs to be and I believe my GPA reflects that. I will be taking the ACT in March and will update my profile when completed.  Another factor that sets me apart from other recruits is my passion and dedication towards the game. I believe this is the strongest aspect of my game, as I can always promise 100% effort, as well as putting in extra work to help set me apart. I have continuously maintained going out for strenuous, focused sessions to help me improve in the aspects that I struggle in and I love doing so. This is the same for not only my technical abilities, but also physical and mental abilities. I consistently go to the gym and do runs to maintain and improve my strength, explosiveness and fitness. As well as meeting with a sports psychologist weekly to help with my confidence and risk-taking. Finally, I believe my character sets me apart from other recruiters. I am very coachable and enjoy receiving feedback as it is simply another opportunity to improve as a player. If I am needed in a different position, I will play there with the same intensity as attacking midfield. In addition, if I am needed to take more of a leadership role I will happily accept the task and take it on with pride. 

I appreciate you taking the time to read my personal statement and I hope to get to know you and your program better.

Thanks,

Josh