Ryan Franlin '26 Recruiting Profile

From a young age, soccer brought immense joy to my life. My soccer journey began as a toddler when I watched my older sister play and tried my best to break free from my parents and run on the field.  My dad, having also played soccer when he was young, taught me how to play at home until I was old enough to join a team.  At age 5, I joined our community recreation league and loved it.  By the fourth grade, I joined a travel team and embarked on my travel soccer career. The thrill of traveling to games, facing challenging teams, and pushing myself to improve was incredibly fulfilling.  Those initial experiences are what ignited my passion for the sport.

By the time I got to middle school, I was talented enough to make the varsity team in both 7th and 8th grades.  Enjoying both my school and travel teams, I had a bright outlook for my next chapter in high school.  Unfortunately, at the end of my 8th grade year, I faced a profound setback when a close friend was tragically murdered. This devastating event shook my world, affecting every aspect of my life, including my outlook on soccer.  Nothing seemed important or enjoyable to me at that time.  That summer I was fortunate enough to travel to Ireland and play with the FC Liberty team.  As I look back on it now, I realize what an amazing opportunity it was, but in my stage of shock and grief I couldn’t appreciate it. 

In high school, I continued to play for both my school and travel teams, taking on many different positions including winger, outside back, and striker.  As a sophomore I was named Captain of the travel team.  I also tried my hand at volleyball and received the Most Improved Player award and was named Captain of the JV team in my sophomore year.  Even with all that I was doing, I couldn't find that joy that I used to feel with sports. I then began to embrace religion and attended church and youth group every Sunday to work through my feelings.  At the end of my sophomore year, I came to a crossroads and didn’t know if I wanted to continue playing soccer.  

It took time, but as the sadness I felt became more manageable I rediscovered my love for soccer and realized that if I could overcome such tragedy, I am strong enough to get through anything.  Throughout my soccer journey, I've learned countless valuable lessons about being a good player, a good teammate, and a good person and through my life experiences I have also learned the importance of inner strength.

Known for my electrifying speed and agility, I am a relentless hustler, always pushing myself to exceed my limits and giving my all to my team.  Soccer has been a constant in my life, and my commitment to the game remains steadfast. I am determined to continue playing and improving, driven by the joy and passion that has fueled me since childhood.