How did you get started playing soccer?
My parents put me and both my brothers in sports growing up so that’s really how it all started. I grew up playing soccer, basketball and baseball. I ended up fully committing to soccer probably around the 6th grade.
Who's been your biggest soccer inspiration?
I honestly don’t really have an inspiration in the sport of soccer but one main thing that has kept me going and has helped me tremendously during this journey is definitely my family. From my two older brothers to both my amazing parents, they have all taught me so many things and I can honestly say I would have no chance of being where I am today without them.
What drew you to UC Irvine as a student-athlete?
There were a lot of things that I liked about UCI - being close to home so my family can watch me play and the culture and togetherness of the men’s soccer team, but I think the main thing that had me all in was that the coaching staff truly believed that I could be great and helped me believe that too.
Is there a special meaning behind you wearing No. 19?
Yes, the number 19 means a lot to me. My brothers, Trevor, CJ, and I were all born on the 19th day of the month. Wearing that number means a lot to me because I have the privilege of representing us and honoring them as I play because they have done so much for me.
This year, you guys defeated UC Santa Barbara to win the Big West Championship and punch your ticket to the NCAA Tournament. Can you take us through that game and how it felt to raise the trophy?
To be honest with you, that game felt like a blur. I honestly just remember how good the team was feeling the day before and the day of the game. I remember sitting in the locker room with everyone listening to music after warming up and honestly after walkouts I could maybe tell you three plays that happened that game, but the feeling after was unmatched. From not having the start we wanted for our Big West season to ending up winning the regular season, the Big West tournament and getting to celebrate with the team after was truly an amazing feeling.
What are your goals for your senior season at UCI?
My main goal for my last season at UCI is definitely to bring another trophy to the locker room, but in order to do that I need to be the best version of myself and be the best leader I can be for the team. Growing not only as a player but as a person that needs to step into a leadership role isn’t easy but it is definitely one of my goals to lead this team to another trophy.
How do you balance academics and soccer?
I have never really been the best academically to be honest so at times it can be a struggle. One person that has helped me so much is definitely my girlfriend. She is a very intelligent individual that offers me so much help, whether it’s from making sure I stay on top of my schoolwork or offering her thoughts from her experiences, she truly has played such a big part in me being able to balance academics and soccer.
