Grant Koplinski '22 Recruiting Profile

    I started playing soccer at the age of 6, beginning in a park district league, I found that I had some natural talent for the sport and continued to play competitively through my club team, Illinois Futbol Club.  This provided a great many valuable opportunities that have helped me become a well-rounded player.  I have traveled with this team to Chicago, Indianapolis, Minneapolis (USA Cup), Nashville and St. Louis to play in many tournaments and showcases.  However, the highlight was going to Spain to play in an international tournament (Donosti Cup).  We were lucky enough to practice at Real Madrid's training ground and play tournament matches in San Sebastian.  Our team advanced to the round of 16 and finished as the best American team in the tournament.  Playing on this international stage was an invaluable experience that has helped me deal with high pressure situations on and off the field. 

    Coming out of high school I was recruited and decided to go to Illinois College. After just one semester I decided to transfer and go to a community college in my home town named Parkland Community College. I joined Parkland in the Spring of 2023 and I am now a sophomore this fall looking to transfer to after this year. We have reached national rankings this season and I have been named the captain of the team. We have aspirations of going to the national tournament this year and becoming one of the best teams in Parklands history. I have ambitions to transfer to a university next year that is competitive and a high level of play. I am a hard worker and am always looking to improve however I can. I hope to one day play in a national tournament at any level and be part of a close and ambitious team.