Adam McAleenan ‘19 Recruiting Profile

Personal Statement

I have always wanted to challenge myself to achieve the most I can academically and in sports - in life in general in fact. I am looking for a college that will give me the greatest opportunity to continue to develop academically, at sports and as a person. I believe that hard work and a great support network are necessary to make the most of your talent and I hope to find a college that can provide me with great coaching and teaching support to add to my own hard work.

I hope to leave college with a high quality degree which opens up opportunities for me in life.  I enjoy learning a wide range of things which is why I am currently studying English, Biology and Sports Science.   Biology and Sports Science certainly help my development as an athlete and English Literature gives me a great insight into people and their thinking.

I really enjoy sports having represented my school at rugby, cross country running and also obtained a green belt in karate.  My real passion though is soccer. In the first instance I get great enjoyment from the game - the competitive element really appeals to my spirit and will to win. I like the challenge of going head to head with an opponent and having to adapt my style to ensure I can handle a variety of opponents. The other side of the game that stands out for me is teamwork. Playing soccer is like being part of a family and gives me the opportunity to help and support my team mates on (and off) the field. I have greatly enjoyed representing my school and want to have this honour again for a college team.

I have played for the Northern Ireland national team from the age of 14 so have been coached by the best youth soccer coaches in this country. I have also visited other countries and tested myself against players from all over Europe. This has been a fantastic experience and I have learnt a lot about myself as a soccer player and a person. I am excited about representing them again at U19 in the coming weeks.

My proudest moments have been captaining my club side to national cup success,  captaining my country v Slovakia in 2015 and getting 3 A grades in my AS level exams.

I am very interested in testing myself in a new environment and learning from new coaches and benefiting from great facilities. I have visited the USA on a number of occasions and I am very excited at the thought of studying there whilst progressing my soccer journey.