Caleb Johnson '26 Recruiting Profile

     When I started playing soccer at 5 years old, who knew that my love for the game of soccer and goalkeeping would grow into what it is today? I have been passionate about playing goalkeeper since I was 8 years old. Throughout my years of goalkeeping experience, I have contributed to many different teams and their successes. Some of my personal successes while playing goalkeeper include: playing goalkeeper for the Cal State Preparatory Academy's UPSL team, nominated and awarded Goalkeeper of the Year for the Tri-County Conference during the 2023-2024 high school season, nominated and won Fresno Bee Athlete of the Week for January 15th-20th 2024 for a shutout win, awarded the Golden Glove award in the Reedley Aguilas Soccer League, placing 2nd place at the Keeper Wars Ink City Tour and being invited to compete in the National Keeperwars Competition in 2022, and earning a starting position on my high school soccer team as a Freshman and Sophmore. 

     While playing goalkeeper I have learned it is important to work hard, stay focused, and have great communication. I work hard both on and off the field. In addition to routine soccer practices, I dedicate additional time to lifting weights and meeting with a specialized goalie coach to improve my skills. I am always looking to improve my quick reflexes, strengthen my vertical jump, and solidify ball handling skills. I learned many years ago from a baseball injury that it is important to persevere to reach your goals. When I was 11 years old I cracked the growth plate in my right arm and could not throw the baseball. However, I did not want to sit on the sidelines, so I worked hard and taught myself to throw a baseball with my left arm so I could continue to play and help out my team. I took what I learned from that experience and have strived to push myself to be the best I can be to support my team members on the playing field. My goal is always to continue to learn from exemplary players and become better than I was yesterday. 

     I am motivated to work hard under pressure and seek success in all areas of my life. Through going to school, having a job, participating in church, and playing competitive soccer I have learned the valuable skill of time management. I currently have a 3.85 GPA and have elected to challenge myself academically by enrolling in Honors and AP courses offered at our high school. During my Freshmen year I also was apart of our high school's award-winning marching band, served as the Freshman class Secretary, and actively participate in my church’s youth group. In addition to playing Varsity Soccer during my Freshman and Sophmore year, I have also participated in JV Water Polo and Varsity Track and Field. Along with all of these commitments I make time to referee youth soccer games to make money for my future, and strengthen my knowledge of the game. My future academic goal is to attend college and attain a Bachelor's degree in Business. 

     I love the game of soccer and would like to pursue a career as a goalkeeper beyond high school.  I have taken intentional steps to strengthen my knowledge of the game from receiving extra coaching to working as a referee. I am dedicated, a team leader, and a hardworking goalkeeper, and feel I would be an asset to any college team.