Tyler Harp '19 Recruiting Profile

When I was younger, I wasn't the best on my first town soccer team. I was pretty good at baseball, lacrosse, and tennis but I wasn't naturally talented at soccer. Yet, I played soccer out of the love for the sport. My parents never forced me into playing soccer; I just knew when I first played it that it was the sport for me. Regardless, I kept learning and improving my game and eventually got to the level I am at today. I went from playing for the B town team to being a pivotal player and starter in a successful team in the USSDA academy system. I believe through my career, it highlights my ability to learn and adapt.  This trait has taken me further than I could ever imagine then as a young soccer player. Looking back on how far I have come, I believe it equates to the amount I have worked and put effort into perfecting my soccer ability. Even though many who saw me play at a young age would not have believed I could reach where I've got to, I have surpassed their expectations and I am now looking to play collegiate level soccer. This ability to learn along with the amazing coaches I've had the privilege of working with and my supportive parents have taken me to the place I am today. 

My proudest moment, and the one that really showed how far I've come,  was when my coach,  Mick O'brein, informed me that I had a spot on the U14 academy team for Everton FC Westchester. This moment demonstrated how far my love for the game and perseverance had brought me. Not only was this a spot on an elite team, but illustrated the approval of a former Everton academy coach in England and a person who I looked up to. It proved to me that I could achieve what others did not believe was possible earlier on in my career.  I am now even more grateful for the opportunities it has given me, providing me a better chance to go to the school of my dreams. Soccer has ultimately opened up so many options for me and shown me how true passion can make your dreams come true.