Personal Statement
Hi,
Many thanks for looking at my profile. I am excited about possibly joining a team at the University level. I was born in Bristol, England, and began Soccer (Football) training at age five. I played for my local team, Portishead Juniors in Portishead, England, and North Somerset Development and Academy Teams in Clevedon, England. I moved to Texas at age 12 and played for Premier Club in Midlothian, TX, for two years, as well as my middle school team.
When I began High School, I had to choose between pursuing an associate degree over playing Club Soccer. Also, I am lucky to travel back to England and be a camper and now staff at YMCA Camp HI-Rock in Massachusetts - where I teach soccer to campers. I was a starting player on the JV team my Freshman year for MHHS and have been a starting player on the Varsity Team my Sophomore (Division 4A) and Junior year (Division 5A). Heading into my Senior year at MHHS, I was elected as one of the Team Captains.
Because I will graduate HS with an associate degree from Navarro College, I will transfer to University as a Junior. However, I am interested in achieving a master's degree as well. I have a 3.6 GPA across my HS and College Classes. I am also a dyslexic learner.
My work ethic, can-do attitude, understanding of the game, desire to never quit, open mindset, and years of experience playing Soccer in the UK and the US make me an excellent candidate. I am looking for a program that believes in me and supports me to be the best I can be on and off the field. Thank you!
Recommendations:
"I'm truly honored to submit this letter on Ian Stransom's behalf. I have had the pleasure of coaching Ian for most of his Jr. High and High School career. Ian is not only an exceptional young man; he is an amazing leader. Ian's soccer speaks for itself, and you have a film -- that showcases his ability. I want to talk about the qualities I have seen that will allow Ian to continue growing and improving. Ian is a coaches/teacher's dream. His ability to take the information presented on paper and translate it to the field is uncanny. Soccer is a class to Ian, he studies the game, and anything he needs to improve becomes his homework.
When Ian noticed the physicality it took to excel in high school soccer, he took it upon himself to begin extra weight training with the football team. Note that Ian does not and has not played football, but he saw an opportunity to become stronger and took it. This is a quality that has been consistent throughout the time that I have known Ian. We know the thin line between good and great is the desire, ability, and willingness to strive to be better, to be great, and Ian has it. If you have any questions, please reach out to me directly at 817-201-1416 or [email protected]." Coach CaShan Clark - Head Coach Alvarado ISD - Former Head Coach MHHS
"Ian Stransom is the type of player every coach desires to have on his team. He works outside team training without being told, conducts himself with poise on the field, and challenges every ball to create opportunities for his teammates. I’ve coached him since middle school and have seen Ian become a player that is very difficult to take off the field due to being so valuable." Coach Brian Moss - Head Coach Midlothian Heritage HS, Oakland Christian HS 4-year Varsity, WOLBI collegiate player.
"When I think of Ian, I think of someone who is a leader, has good character, is always there for the team, and gives 100% effort on the field at games and practice and off the field every single day; just an incredible player. He is one of the best players I've ever played with." Dylan Riggins - Teammate and Captain MHHS 2022/2023 Varsity Team, District 8-5A Utility Player of The Year and Abilene Christian University Football Placekicker
"I have had the pleasure of teaching Ian geometry this year. He is a wonderful student and is determined to succeed. When he has questions, he is not afraid to ask for help and asks follow-up questions as needed. On the rare occasion that he misses class, he takes the initiative and works hard to catch up on any necessary material. Math is so much more than the ability to memorize, and Ian understands the need to learn each concept we cover truly. I am thankful for students like him that keep me passionate about teaching!
I had the opportunity to attend a few of Ian’s soccer games this season. It is clear that the same determination he has in the classroom carries over onto the field. It was inspiring to see him in his element. You can see his passion for soccer the entire time he is on the field. Ian would be an incredible addition to any college program." Shannon Straw, Midlothian Heritage High School Math Department, shannon.straw@midlothianisd.org
