Travis Running '18 Recruiting Profile

     Soccer has always been part of my life. For six years, I played as a right back and midfielder for my Lake Oswego and Hood River teams. When I was 13, we did not have a goalie so I switched from playing field and immediately enjoyed every second in the goal. Because we did not have a goalkeeper coach in my small, rural town, my family drove me 90 minutes one-way for my weekly training sessions with my first keeper coach, Sorin Popovici. He has been one of my biggest inspirations to aim for playing at the highest collegiate level possible. I continue to drive over 70 minutes one-way to attend my club training because I want to be on the best team possible. While this has some impact on my life, I believe it is helping me understand commitment and balance.

      When I began playing at the competitive state and regional levels, I played in Hood River under Pero Lovrin. Our team, Hood River Strikers/BSC Oregon, was typically ranked in the top four in the state of Oregon. We were able to win the highest state competitive league and in July of 2014 participated in the National Premier League Finals. I also played on the Hood River Valley High School team that won the state 5A championships in 2014 and 2015. Currently, I am playing for the Oregon-based National Premier Soccer League U18 academy team called the Portland Spartans FC. Playing for the Spartan's academy team, the focus has been playing in high level, college showcase tournaments such as the Surf Cup. We are currently ranked as one of the top 99 boys teams in Oregon.

     My desire is to play soccer at the highest level possible. In school, I strive to earn the highest good grades possible, challenging myself with a rigorous class schedule, and being a thoughtful and courteous student. I believe this will be helpful in college, as I will have already developed the skills to successfully balance academics and athletics.

2017 Update: Due to a shoulder injury, I was unable to play soccer during the fall of 2017. I have been released to resume training and expect to return to playing games and tournament by January 2018. I am confident I am 100% and stronger than I was before the injury.