Merrick Schaefer '24 Recruiting Profile

I have been playing in the elite national youth league (Developmental Academy, and now MLS Next) for the past 4 years.  I know what it’s like to compete at a very high level.  Daily training, long road trips on weekends, all while learning how to manage my school time and homework, has prepared me for the rigor and challenges of college soccer athletically and academically.   In addition, I have experienced international soccer by training and competing in Europe twice with my Academy team.  This has broadened my view of the game and shown me what it takes to become a top player.  I feel that these experiences as a player will allow me to succeed at the college level. 

I am a leader on and off the soccer field and have been selected all four years to be a team captain.  On the field, I am someone who brings a "do-not-quit" attitude during the game and I know how to set the tone by leading with my voice.   I will bring a competitive and positive attitude to any team I play for and am always wanting to win and improve as a player.   Off the field, I have learned to lead by example with my actions as a good role model.  Last year, as a high school Sophomore, I played varsity soccer and was named to the All-Conference team and offered the captainship for next season because of my leadership abilities.   I feel that being in a leadership role will be a difference maker at the college level.  

Academically, I have been able to still maintain a high GPA while balancing school work and soccer.  Getting a college degree while playing soccer would be a perfect fit for me.