Joey Zacchia '16 Recruiting Profile

        My name is Joey Zacchia and I am a 5'11", 165 lb. forward. I attend Xavier High School in Middletown, CT, an all-boys Xaverian Brothers Sponsored school. I was the only member of my freshman class to play varsity soccer. During my freshman year our team made it to the semifinals of our SCC Conference. It was a great experience to play at the varsity level early in my high school career so I know what to expect in the years to come. My sophomore year, my team and I were very successful. I tallied a total of 15 goals and 9 assists. Our team made it to the semifinals of the state tournament, and we won our division and conference (the Southern Connecticut Conference).

        I have been playing soccer since I was 4 years old, and ever since, I have been involved with club teams and the State of Connecticut’s ODP program. I currently play for the CFC Wolves out of Rocky Hill, CT. I have also played baseball up until my freshman year of high school where I decided to focus exclusively on soccer. What really gave me the extra jump ahead of everybody at such a young age was the fact that I was learning and pursuing the art of Tang So Do which involves both physical ability and mental focus. After 7 years, I earned my black belt at the age of 11. That was such an exciting moment and accomplishment. Behind the scenes, I am working out with a personal trainer 3-4 times a week, and have truly seen a difference in my total body.

        I enjoy watching soccer, especially when El Classico is on, and I watch my Real Madrid beat Barcelona. My favorite player is Cristiano Ronaldo, although I enjoy the likes of other soccer players such as Gareth Bale, Fernando Torres, Robin Van Persie, Mario Balotelli, Edison Cavani, Didier Drogba, and Radamel Falcao. When I watch soccer, I get so into the game that I feel as if I am there watching and celebrating along with the goals! Through playing soccer, I have learned that I am a very determined individual and I love competition. I am the kind of player that likes the pressure of a game situation and can score the winning goal when everyone is tired and game time is dwindling down.

       Academically, my transition to high school went smoothly. I earned a 4.0 out of a 4.33 GPA every quarter. My final GPA was a 3.98 because one of my courses was a half-year course. I was in all Honors classes and will be in my sophomore year as well. I aspire to continue to keep my grades up and hopefully top my 4.0. My courses during my freshman year were: Intro to Literature and Composition 9, Christian Scriptures, Spanish I, Physics, Civics, Algebra I, Gym (Half-year), and Computer Essentials (Half-year). I hope to attend a college that is notable for its academics and athletics. I am aspiring for Division 1 primarily, but will be excited to attend Division 2 or Division 3 schools as well.

        Lastly, I'd like to point out what separates me from other high school athletes. What separates me from the others is my tremendous amount of speed, athletic ability, and power. I have the ability to slice through defenders with a simple through ball and slot it past the keeper. I also have good footwork when I need to take on and beat a defender. I am always aware of my positioning and the positioning of others on the field. I take the role of a leader and am very vocal, encouraging my teammates and helping them when they are in trouble. My strength allows me to take powerful yet accurate shots from a distance and score. My strength also helps me with my shielding and jumping ability which ultimately leads to possession of the ball.