- 2024 Highlights
Personal Statement
Standing at 6'3" and weighing 175 pounds, I am an international centre-back with over 11 years of football experience, driven by a deep passion for the sport. From the age of five, when I first joined my local Sunday League Club, to now playing for the Brentford Post 16 Team; part of a Category 2 Academy in England, my journey has been defined by dedication and growth.
I have been passionate about sports for as long as I can remember, always eager to get involved in any athletic challenge that came my way. From a young age, I have been drawn to the competition, discipline, and joy that sports bring, constantly seeking new ways to push myself and improve.
Starting High School as a three-sport athlete; football, basketball, and tennis, I have consistently embraced every opportunity to compete and push myself, both physically and mentally. I reached the final 16 in The Road to Wimbledon National 14 and Under Challenge and competed on a National level in basketball. In Grade 10, I earned a spot on the Varsity football team and received the Most Improved Player award that same year. In addition, when I was younger I was a National level chess player and won the school chess championship four years in a row.
Competing in national chess tournaments challenged my mental discipline, a skill that carried over into my academics, where I earned Honour Roll in both Semester 1 and Semester 2 of High School.
I have learned to adapt to setbacks, such as when I broke my arm as a goalkeeper. After returning, I transitioned to playing outfield instead. When I switched to playing outfield, one of my coaches told me that I would not make it to a high level. That comment has stuck with me ever since. Whenever I feel like giving up, I remind myself of his words and ask myself, ‘Do you want to prove him right?’ This has motivated me to keep pushing forward.
I take pride in my leadership skills, having served as captain for both my school team and my U16 and U18 club teams. Communication is one of my greatest strengths on the pitch and I believe it is also one of the most important in football as every choir needs an orchestrator. I genuinely love football, and I show that through my actions. During the off-season, I bike an hour and a half just to train with my teammates for one hour. Being on the pitch gives me a sense of belonging like nowhere else.
