Raoni Coelho '21 Recruiting Profile

Hi, I'm Raoni Coelho! I am a Portuguese and Angolan athlete. I have lived in Angola, Houston, Singapore, and currently living in Lisbon, Portugal. I have experienced different cultures from all around the world, some would consider me as TCK (third culture kid).  Ever since I was young there was always a true passion for soccer in my family.  It started with my older brother and slowly built towards me. However, in my 13 years of living in Singapore, I started to take soccer seriously at around the age of 10. Despite my passion for soccer at a young age, when I starting to play I was never the best player on my team. I was not confident in myself or my ability. At the age of 11, I was on the D team for my club. I was also on the C team for school (Singapore American School). After this, I knew enough was enough. I worked hard every day, training by myself, with my brother, with my friends. I was determined to become a better player. I made football my number one priority. At the age of 12, I then moved up to the B team. Then by the age of 13, I was on the A-team. I went from being on the D team all the way to the A-team. I am not someone who has god-given talent for this sport. The player that I am today is because of the hard work and determination that I have for this sport. I am confident in my ability, and I know that I have what it takes to compete at the highest level. The reason why I want to be a college athlete is that I want to do what I love at a high level and get the chance at a college education, which is something that is very important in my life.