Personal Statement
My goal is to be the best soccer player that I can be. I would like to play at the highest level possible - either the college and/or the professional level. I had the amazing opportunity to go to Portugal last summer and train at the International Football Academy of Portugal. I was able to improve my endurance, skills and overall soccer knowledge through the excellent coaching and by playing with guys from different parts of the world. At the end of the summer, I was offered a position on the Real Sport Clube U19 team outside of Lisbon. I came home to apply for a visa that would allow me to spend the next year in Portugal. My plan right now is to also stay for the 2022-23 season and postpone college to 2023.
My coaches in Portugal were surprised at how quickly I improved over the summer. I realize that I can always be better so I actually love getting constructive criticism from my coaches and teammates. I’ve been able to move between playing as a defensive midfielder and as a center back because of the coaching that I have received. I understand that being on a team means that the group is more important than the individual and a win is a win whether I am blocking shots, setting up the plays, assisting or scoring myself. I'm excited to see how much more I can develop by playing in the Division 2 National League in Portugal this year.
