Braeden Young '23 Recruiting Profile

I started playing soccer when I was 4 years old and since then soccer has always been a big part of my life.  I have played at many different levels from playing for my club, representing my region, and the local men’s league.  While soccer is my main sport, I also enjoy playing futsal because it is fast paced which has helped me think quickly and develop my foot skills.  I also like watching football, basketball, and sometimes baseball.  One of my favorite classes in school is physical education; I liked being active.  Because of my interest in athletics, I want to study a subject where I can work in athletics--kinesiology, athletic training, physical therapy, or business-sports management.  My goal is to maintain a 4.0 through high school to help me get into a college where I can pursue one of those studies. 

The biggest influence in my life is my mom.  She has raised me on her own since I was about 6 years old.  She showed me the importance of being independent and responsible.  She worked so I had to learn to manage my time to get my homework done and help coordinate practice and game schedules.  Also, I had to learn to travel on my own with the team.  She also showed me how important upholding my obligations and teamwork.  Obligations and teamwork are not only part of being in a family but being part of a team, too.  

Playing soccer taught me I love competition and can handle pressure very well.  I focus on my responsibility and get into a zone where I just play the game instead of letting the pressure affect me.  My favorite part of the game is strategy—seeing the big picture, anticipating actions, and adapting to any situation.  My ability to focus on strategy and remain calm during games is important to leading a team and are why my coach selected me to be the co-captain at our last tournament.  I think I am a good candidate for any team because I can play most positions and will play wherever my coach needs me.