Personal Statement
Education has always been important to me and is one of my family’s core values. Through my high school program, I have always challenged myself with honors level classes. This year I went beyond honors classes, currently taking a college level science course. One of my top priorities is earning a bachelor’s degree while playing college soccer. Playing soccer for a program that values education is important to me.
I love the game of soccer because it constantly challenges me both physically and mentally. Soccer is a game of high intelligence, regularly requiring a player to think and react quickly. When I was young, the focus was on the physical and technical game, things like first touch, soccer moves and repetition. With each year I play, the emphasis has shifted to the tactical side, while maintaining the technical. I enjoy the challenge of learning the tactical side of formations and movement without the ball. My role model is Andres Iniesta from FC Barcelona and I try to mimic his game. We’re alike in many ways – we play the same position, we outplay our competitors with our heads as much as our feet, and we both have a high work rate. Soccer is a very important part of my life and I persistently push myself to learn and grow.
I also believe that giving back and being involved in my community is important. Over the past year, I have given over 60 combined hours volunteering at my local YMCA and with my club team. During this period I also took on the responsibility of getting a job, in which I have kept while going to school and playing in the developmental academy.
My goals are simple – further my education by earning a bachelor’s degree while playing soccer at a high level in a competitive university program. I will continue to challenge myself both on and off the pitch.
Reece Williams