Derek Maniak '16 Recruiting Profile

        I have been playing soccer since I was 8 years old. I played many different positions such as right and left wing, center midfield, and forward. Ever since I started playing the game, I have been training to use both feet and now I am ambidextrous. My goal is to play at the College Level and it could really make an impact on my life. 

       At the start of my freshman year in high school I made the Varsity Soccer Team and had a place in the starting 11 as a forward. As a sophomore, I was named captain of the Varsity team because of my leadership on the field and understanding of the game. I lead by example on the field. Junior year, I finished second in the conference in goal scoring with 30 goals and 5 assists. I was named First Team All Conference and was also a captain.  This year, as a Senior, I scored 26 goals and had 6 assists and was named First Team All Conference, All Area, and All County. I take corner kicks, free kicks, and penalty kicks. I currently play for Madison FC Gold, but I have played for MYSC Rush Blue and Middleton Yahara Soccer Club. I also made the FC Milwaukee Academy Team. Since 2012, I started doing ODP in 2011 and I made the ODP Wisconsin State Team and went to the Regional tournament both years in Rockford, IL.

    Most people are involved in many sports but I stick with one sport. I have played many sports but I stick with Soccer. Practicing everyday is a habit for me, because while I am not practicing, other players are getting better.