Daniel Merkel '15 Recruiting Profile

I am a soccer goalkeeper who is interested in the Kinesiology/Coaching program. I am looking to start in the fall of 2015. Within the past 5 years, I have played in the top league in Ontario, Canada where we have been top place champions for 2 of the 3 years, and have played in a Canadian National Championship where we were bronze medalists. The last two years, I began playing in the USL League in the US.  Two seasons ago, I played up a year with the U17 for the Toronto Lynx and helped my team succeed to the finals for the National Championship in the Super Y League. Through a strong performance at that tournament, I was chosen as the top goaltender for the National All-Star Team. This February 2014, I was chosen to be a part of the U16 ODP camp at IMG Stadium. More recently, I played with the U20s and finished the season placing 6th overall at Nationals also at IMG in July 2014.

I am an athletic technical keeper with years of specialized training and experience on the field. Highlights for me to-date include national experience and an invitational trial with Swansea FC.  I have strong foot skills giving me the ability to play with both feet while keeping my accuracy.  I also use my strong offensive skills in net to start quick counter attacks.  I have strong distribution skills, both with feet and hands. I enjoy playing a possession type of game and have also been active in other school sports such as football, volleyball and track & field.   
 

Academically, in 2012, I was nominated by 3 teachers all from my high school as a positive student body role model. I bring this attitude on and off the field. I strive with attention to detail in completing my homework which does not go unnoticed. I have always been a hardworking student, trying to prove myself to the best of my abilities, seeking help when I needed it.