Personal Statement
My name is Massimiliano (Massi) Memoli and I was born in Milan, Italy, a country truly passionate for soccer. Fortunately, I caught on and my love for the sport began to grow instantly.
I am now a junior at Winchester Thurston High School in Pittsburgh, PA and have been part of their varsity soccer program since my freshman year. I am a natural Center Mid, but I also play Defensive Mid - Center Back when the team needs it. I have been starting in every HS game so far. In my first year, we got 2nd in our Section and advanced to the QF of the WPIAL playoffs. After a strenuous season my sophomore year, we got 1st in our Section, 2nd in the WPIAL playoffs, and 2nd in the PIAA state championship. In 2020 I became team captain, helping the team winning our Section and getting 2nd in the WPIAL playoffs. I have been named 2020 all sectional player. Fall 2021 will be my last season with my high school team and I am determined to lead the team to another trophy.
Outside of school, I play with my club team, Arsenal FC of Pittsburgh, where I have been practicing since I was a little kid. In the current very odd season due to Covid-19, we only had 7 games so far, yet I have netted 2 goals and had 5 assists. I am hoping to continue my goal contribution streak and to help my team win tournaments. Our goal is to take the State Cup back to town.
What sets me apart as an individual player is my capability from both the physical and mental side of the game. Having had the experience of being a captain, I am a constructive leader on the field that brings the best out of my teammates. Also, on the pitch, I always demand more from myself by making an extra effort to win the ball, make the run, or get into a better position.
Off the pitch, the pandemic has given me plenty of time to work on my technique, body, and mentality. I’ve set up training sessions with teammates and used web tools to improve my technique. I’ve also taken up running, both outdoors and on my treadmill indoor, to improve my stamina. This is in addition to the strict workout regimen that I carry out every day. My love for soccer gives me the determination to always work harder than the person next to me and to constantly strive for improvement.
