Elijah Mcdonald '24 Recruiting Profile

Overview

At Coral Springs Charter High School in Coral Springs, Florida, I am a member of the 2024 graduating class. I presently play for the Springs Soccer Club 17U Academy Team and UPSL Men's team as a striker. I've started on two travel teams for five years (been playing soccer for 10 years) and have eight years of track experience for my school and several travel clubs. I usually play striker or right-wing for my club, and I compete in the 100, 200, and 4x1 Relay on the track.

Background

I began playing soccer at the age of four and began running track at the age of eight. I've always been one of the fastest runners on the field and have played up top for practically every team/club I've ever been a part of. Soccer and track and field have always been two of my favorite sports. The camaraderie, competition, and teamwork are all things I appreciate. When it comes to soccer, I not only practice five times a week, but I also take private lessons on the weekends and in the evenings. I've played with elite teams, won multiple titles, and attended several elite camps during the summer months throughout my soccer career. My coaches have all aided me in reaching this level of play, and I am appreciative of their advice and support. I have positive relationships with all of my coaches and continue to seek their counsel as I pursue new possibilities both on and off the field. My ambition is to start college in the Fall of 2024, majoring in meteorology and participating in soccer and/or track.

Learned Lessons

There have been numerous life lessons that I have learned during my time as an athlete. For me, the most important thing is to keep my mental health in mind. Self-care, meditation, breathing, confidence, and tuning out the "noise" are all necessary for me to play and manage my emotions successfully. The most important lesson I've learned is the importance of sticking to a regular plan and regimen in order to maintain mental strength.

Challenges

My speed, stature, and agility have always been described as a gift, and I've been told that I'm a natural athlete. However, I've been informed that I might not be able to play collegiately and that I should pursue another career path. Despite the fact that the odds are stacked against me, I am always the most diligent worker in the room. I'm the first to arrive and the last to leave. Every time I step onto the field, I leave an indelible imprint, and I am confident that my passion, perseverance, and determination will help me achieve my goal of playing in college.

Goals

My ambition has always been to play soccer in college and at the best level possible, ideally at a Division I institution. I believe my skills as a versatile student-athlete are unique and will enable me to compete at that level. My dream athletic experience would be one in which I could contribute early in my university career, ideally as a freshman. I want to be a positive influence on my teammates, always searching for ways to help them win. I can bring speed, quickness, agility, and mental toughness to your team. I am a player who knows sacrifice and hard work and has the passion, commitment, energy, and hustle to succeed.