Alexander Gardner '24 Recruiting Profile

Soccer has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. According to my parents, I started showing an interest in soccer at the age of 2, and it has been a big part of my life ever since. It has taught me about the importance of teamwork, leadership, and how to be a risk-taker. When I first started playing soccer I was living in Vietnam, where I was also born. Since then I have lived in Cambodia, the Philippines, and now the United States. Moving around a lot when I was younger was a challenge, but one that made me who I am today. I learned from experience how sports, particularly soccer, can bring people together and lead to new friendships. 

Studying at international schools overseas, and now at Meridian High School in Falls Church City, I have had the privilege to follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The focus on personal development and academic rigor of the IB program provides me with a solid foundation for the future, both academically and on the soccer field. Both on and off the soccer field, the IB learner profile traits of open-mindedness and reflectiveness have been particularly important to my growth. As a soccer player, I am open-minded and value the opportunity to learn from diverse perspectives and approaches to the sport while also having the capacity to reflect on my weaknesses to identify areas and strategies for further growth. 

As someone who sets high standards for me on and off the field, and who has the passion and drive to achieve those high standards, I aspire to attend a college that will challenge me academically and provide a venue for growth and excellence on the soccer field.