Tristan Whelchel '21 Recruiting Profile

Carpe Diem! Seize the day! This was a quote one of my former coaches said to my team as we lead into victory at a tournament in Arizona. I believe it is a motto to live by every time you enter a field to play a game against your opponent, but it is also a motto you can use to live by outside of soccer to not only challenge yourself academically but to live life to its fullest.  I began playing soccer thirteen years ago, when my family was living in Germany. I was lucky to of taken a class in soccer drills by a retired athlete. My family has moved all round the world with my father’s career so I have learned to adapt to new situations, new environments, and do my best when I get there. I have two brothers and one sister, since we move around a lot, soccer was something we could play together where ever we were at. I grew quite fond of the game. I first played defense in the beginning, and then goal keeping caught my interest. I took a class for goal keepers, and I was hooked. The diving, jumping, punching, and catching was a thrill. Leading your team throughout the game, having to make quick decisions, and trust your defense has your back when you challenge the ball. These are things that influence me to do my best. My coaches over the years have been a huge impact. Each one has a different perspective and style of coaching, without their trust and influence I could not do my job successfully. As I play this sport, I have learned that I am a leader. I am quite but my team mates trust me as I lead them from the back. We each have a mutual respect for each other. My goal for high school is to improve and learn as much as I can. My high school goal keeper coach, has taught me how to have a strong work ethic not only on the field but off as well, but having a positive attitude is important too. As for college, I am planning on studying chemistry and hopefully play soccer for a University while I am there.  

Obstacles that I have overcome while playing soccer, moving around to different towns, learning new teams. I played up for 2 years and had to prove to the older teammates that I was capable to play at their level. I won them the Championship in a shootout, made it to state, and overall earn their respect. Being the youngest was a challenge but it made a stronger person, and built my confidence as a keeper.  As far a a unique characteristics or skill that I posse, I would have to stay I do not believe in quitting. Your teammates need you when they are down, and giving up isn't in the game.  

As a keeper, I am humble. I do believe that you must listen to your coaches, take criticism with respect, and never show unsportsmanship conduct on or off the field.