Joshua Dotzler '22 Recruiting Profile

The aspect of the goalie position that I love the most is being part of a defensive unit on an area of the field where there is no margin for error.  Any and all mistakes are catastrophic.  This stressful atmosphere requires players that are physical, smart, tough and intelligent…and above all we have to work together.  I think this is probably where I’m at my best…keeping the unit calm but mentally sound.  When the unthinkable happens (and a goal slips through), I always accept the blame regardless.  My dad always told me, “It’s your goal and you are ultimately responsible for everything that happens, whether it’s your fault or not.”  That didn’t make much sense for a long time, but over the past few years, I now understand.  Leadership is a burden, not an excuse, and I think that by accepting the burden, it helps keep the unit calm and motivated during the game.  Of course, practice is a different story altogether.  I simply have no tolerance for players who think they can perform during the game but can’t seem to give 100% at practice or show up on time or simply maintain academic eligibility.  The fact is, the defense is a brotherhood; you either give 100% effort, 100% of the time, or you don’t.  This attitude over the last couple years has been really inspiring.  No one ever complains or whines or uses injuries as an excuse.  There is no mental weakness.  We would all rather kill or die than let each other down. 

As for academics, I’m very interested in the Construction Management degree.  I’d like to one day own a construction company and build custom houses and perhaps smaller commercial projects.  Certainly, I’d like to play professional soccer but I really have no idea if that’s a realistic goal or just a dream.  I’ll cross that bridge down the road.