Dakota Whitsel '20 Recruiting Profile

I have a keen interest in business (marketing and new product development) and I’m looking to study at a school with a great business program. I’m equally as interested in finding a school with a strong soccer program and culture where I can play a key role in helping the team win games.  

At a young age I was taught that assists are just as important as goals, and as such, I’ve always played as a midfielder.  I currently play as a highly technical and creative defensive midfielder, equally comfortable in the #6 and the #10 role.  I have an excellent tactical understanding of the game, great vision on the pitch, and have a calm, yet creative presence in the midfield.  I excel at creating build-ups that result in dangerous attacks.  I’m a student of the game and can read the game, as well as my players’ abilities, extremely well.  I have a strong, accurate outside shot (dominant left foot).  

I’ve moved around a fair amount (NorCal, North Carolina, Texas and now SoCal) and as a result I’ve had to switch teams/clubs every few years. Despite that fact, I have often worn the captain’s band (or co-captain) which speaks to my leadership both on and off the pitch.  While the lack of continuity has been difficult at times, and it’s not always easy being an “outsider” on a new team, it’s taught me to be tenacious.  It’s also taught me to be flexible since I’ve had to adapt to so many new environments, players, coaches, and styles of play. In the end, it’s definitely made me a better player and I hope to bring that experience with me as I embark on my college career.