Adrian Lara '19 Recruiting Profile

My name is Adrian Lara. I've been playing soccer ever since I've been able to walk. As a toddler, I was always kicking a ball around outside and in the house. I've always had a passionate love for the game. I remember whenever I would get knocked and get hurt on the field, but I would refuse to come off. I would keep playing until the whistle. Ever since I was about 10, I had dreamed of playing college soccer. It has always been one of my top goals and I have been through a few challenges throughout the way but nothing has stopped me from achieving that goal and I have been working hard day-in and day-out to hopefully achieve it one day.

Now, fast forward to 2014-15. I was U14 and played with Chicago Fire Academy. I started every single game in that season. But, when the next season approached, I was having trouble finding minutes on the field and I was stuck in the bench. Obviously, it was something I was not used to and it wasn't something I wanted to get used to. Instead of crying about it, I completely changed my attitude. Every practice, I gave it my all. Outside of the field, I worked on everything I could and I began to see huge improvement in my skills. Not only technically, but mentally and physically as well. I waited for my opportunity to prove to my coaches that I can play just as good as anyone on the field, if not better. As the next season approached, I was determined to play the entire season. Once my opportunity came in the fall, I took advantage of it. Ever since then, I have started nearly every single game and I have played up with our U17/18 team. Not only that, but I am one of our team captains as well.

This comes to show that I will never take the easy way out. If I come up against an obstacle, I will never back down. I keep grinding and give it my all, just to overcome the obstacle. But, I just don't stop there, I am constantly working, day-in and day-out, just so I can improve my game. I believe that I fit in your program because of my character, my "blue collar" work ethic, and my will to never give up. Not only do I believe I can fit will in your program, I believe I have the potential to make an immediate impact on your team.