Michael Cruz '23 Recruiting Profile

    Soccer has been a major part of me ever since my parents signed me up for my first team, at one of the local rec leagues in my area, at the age of eight. I remember playing my first game where I was playing the goalkeeper position. It was not my best game, as I let in many goals that day, but I have transformed since. I changed the position I play, since goalie was not working out. I am now an outside back, who enjoys playing other positions, mostly the defensive midfield position. I have gotten faster, smarter, and stronger; however, there is much more for me to improve on. I train with my father, who helps me with drills that could improve my touch on the ball. I always try working on improving my soccer intelligence by watching games on T.V., watching the pros and paying close attention to the decisions, they make in their games. I developed this habit with my father. I remember us waking up early some days, just to make sure we would not miss any big games. However, skill is not all there is to playing soccer. There is also good discipline and good sportsmanship involved – this is something my father taught me from a young age. In essence, my father has been a big influence and benefactor in my soccer career.

    As for my academics, I challenge myself by taking advanced classes. I try taking as many of the extracurricular opportunities that are available. My goal with academics is to receive the best education and make the best of it because even though I aspire to be collegiate athlete, my education is most important. I can use the knowledge I learn at school for good and benefit the world, or at least try.