Personal Statement
Born and raised in Sydney Australia, I was offered the opportunity to join Red Star Belgrade, one of the leading European football clubs/youth academies. To take this opportunity, I moved to Belgrade, Serbia on my own at the beginning of 2023 at the age of 15 in order to advance my soccer ambitions. Now, almost 2 years into my journey in Belgrade I have been able to compete at the highest level against some of Europe's best players, refining my skills and understanding of the game. Being in a highly competitive European environment has certainly provided challenges and hardships which I have had to endure forcing me to constantly keep pushing and not get comfortable.
While soccer is my passion, I'm equally dedicated to my academic studies, and in Belgrade, I have continued by education at the International School of Belgrade, studying the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme - enjoying the challenging juggle of school and soccer commitments everyday. I have maintained strong grades as I've adjusted to life in Belgrade.
I feel that I am a good, kind and thoughtful person, and have always strived to be a good team mate - I subscribe to the team first mentality. I am a curious person, and this has helped me in soccer and life generally, as it ensures that I always seek more information, guidance, and open to constructive criticism as this is how I can improve. I am extremely competitive, as you expect on the soccer field, however I find as I mature I've realised that a healthy balance on and off the field is important. I am willing to take risks, as evidenced by me leaving home at 15 and moving to Belgrade, staying with extended family to pursue my dreams, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone.
For me, the opportunity to pursue US college soccer route appeals to me as I believe it offers the chance to excel both in the classroom and on the field. I strongly believe in the importance of having a well-rounded education, and I’m committed to achieving success in both areas. I am open-minded to where playing and studying at a top US college will take me - perhaps professional soccer one day, or a great start to my professional career outside of soccer.
