Caleb Basso '22 Recruiting Profile

I live in the rural Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Soccer is not very popular in this region of the country, but it is growing. Because of the lack of popularity I have had to travel significantly to achieve my soccer goals. Whether it was playing in the Wisconsin Olympic Development program, or traveling to Marquette to play with their teams in various tournaments, I have had to make opportunities happen. Since I am homeschooled my siblings and I spend most of our time playing soccer in our yard. This is where I have worked to develop my technical skills and overcome the lack of big clubs and tournaments. My parents have heavily invested in my soccer goals and I am so grateful for their involvement.

I am a student of the game of soccer and really enjoy the tactical side. I tend to read a game fairly well and understand what our team needs to do to win. In game scenarios I always try to encourage my team-mates to analyze the game playing with our heads and our feet. I get along well with team-mates of different backgrounds and look to help establish cohesion. Although I am eager to win and want to have a key role in set-pieces, I am always looking to raise others up around me, and will trust that the coach sees the team and field in a way I do not. I am also not afraid to admit my weaknesses or to be corrected. This is always an opportunity to grow and develop. 

Ultimately I would love to play competitive soccer at the highest level I am capable of playing. But in the long term I desire to complete a degree in engineering and return to my home region to work, raise a family, and invest my talents in my community so that others can dream, grow, and achieve.