Felipe Novak Fontenelle Ribeiro '27 Recruiting Profile

Growing up in Brazil, "futebol" has been more than just a game for me; it's been a passion since I first kicked a ball as a young kid. My dream is to become a professional soccer player, and I have pursued this goal with unwavering dedication. However, in Brazil, it’s almost impossible to develop both a soccer career and an academic education simultaneously. Despite my parents' unwavering support, they were reluctant to let me abandon my studies for soccer alone.

Everything changed in early 2023 when my dad got transferred to the U.S. for work. Suddenly, my dream of playing soccer while getting a great education seemed way more achievable.. The sports culture in the U.S. values both high-level competition and academic achievement, making it possible to pursue both simultaneously. 

Since childhood, I have competed at a high level in both soccer "futebol" and indoor soccer "futsal", gaining valuable experience in Brazil and internationally, including tournaments in the U.S., Sweden, Denmark, and Finland. What sets me apart is my combination of athletic excellence and academic achievement. I am a top student with a passion for mathematics, demonstrating that I can balance exceptional performance in sports with strong academic pursuits. My resilience and determination drive me to overcome challenges and excel. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to and thrive in your university's soccer program.