Jacob Clark '21 Recruiting Profile

     I am interested in a school that offers a positive academic, athletic, and social experience.  I have wanted to play soccer at the college level since I was a young man and also have had a desire to study engineering for most of my school experience, always excelling in science and math. 

     I started playing soccer when I was four years old. I immediately enjoyed the sport and at around 10 began increasing my play to include travel soccer as well as recreational.  Although I started as a midfielder it was when I began playing travel soccer that I was first placed in the goal. My coaches believed that I was a natural there and due to my height and jumping ability I  excelled in this position . In high school I was the starting goalie my freshmen, sophomore, and junior year.  I made 2nd team all state my sophomore and junior year, made all valley my sophomore and junior year and I  was just named the OVAC player of the year.  I was made captain, awarded defensive player of the year for two years, and also awarded the golden bear award two years ( an award for leadership , passion, and sportsmanship).  I live in a "football" town and have received much pressure to play football instead of soccer. My love for the game of soccer has made me go against "whats expected” or "whats popular" . 

     I have also played basketball since I was four.  I have always been a starter on the team and have won BMC titles in 7th and 8th grade. I was the second leading scorer for my varsity basketball team my junior year also leading the team in blocks. I also run track in the spring and have placed 8th in both 110 hurdles and high jump at the WV state track meet. Excelling in these sports and conditioning through these sports all year has only made me a better goalie. 

     I am a 4.0 student that has taken honors classes. I have scored distinguished in testing every year and just scored a 25 on my ACT (28 sci, 31 math). I was chosen for the leadership committee and will be inducted into the National Honor Society this spring . I have always maintained perfect attendance and respected both my teachers and my coaches.

     I believe that my strong academic performance along with being a three star athlete makes me unique from other recruits and a great addition to any team.  The recognition I have received from a wide variety of coaches and teachers as well as my strong work ethic and ability to lead and interact with teammates is a strong asset for any coach and team.