AJ Samba '17 Recruiting Profile

Most of my life I have heard, "You have natural athletic skills".  What most people don't know is that I spent years honing my skills behind the scenes.  When I was 3 my mother signed me up for recreational soccer at a local park.  I loved it!  As I grew older I worked more diligently, more seriously and was more focused.  I began watching professionals on my favorite team and knew I wanted to play like that one day.

I have been fortunate to have experienced excellent coaches who provided the perfect learning environment for me.  My hard work at such an early age paid off!  I played several years for the Baltimore Bays, before being hand picked to play for Crystal Palace when they brought their junior development team to the United States.

I am typically a self directed player.  I believe the difference between a great athlete and a mediocre athlete is the amount of work they are willing to do when no one else is watching!

On my current team, Traverse City Central High School, I strive to be a strong leader, showing through actions and remaining positive while pushing myself and others.  My dream is to continue to improve, and play for a college that allows me to excel in my game and my academics.