What your kid really gets when he plays GU soccer | Greenville College Athletic Department(https://athletics.greenville.edu/)
What your kid really gets when he plays GU soccer | Greenville College Athletic Department(https://athletics.greenville.edu/)
What your kid really gets when he plays GU soccer
While Soccer Coach Chris Swift savors the conference tournament championship that his Greenville University Panthers just secured, he treasures the post-season confessions of his players more.
We've seen their winning ways on the field, but here's a glimpse at strong character and selfless service in the making off the field. If your young up-and-coming soccer player wants to kick that ball in college, this may be the program for him . . .
Came as a kid, left as a man
Greenville men's soccer program has changed my life forever. I came to this school as a kid, and I'm now proud to say I'm leaving as a man. My four years here have been filled with ups and downs. I was injured for two of those years. It required lots of dedication and hard work for me to get back to a team and family that brings me so much happiness. Like every journey in life, nothing comes easy. Guided by coaches and players, I've managed to continue playing the sport I love and continue to assist the program in any way I can. This season was just the cherry on top for me to end my soccer career. I'll never forget the memories created; I'll share them amongst my family and friends. The SLIAC championship, championship t-shirts, and hopefully rings will forever recall an unforgettable season with my brothers. This program changed my life forever, I will forever be thankful for this beautiful experience, and for the people I've met along the way. - Santiago Alzate
Saying "I'm in" to accountability
Swift credits the strength of this year's team to determined student leaders who led on and off the field. They provided spiritual guidance, modeled behavior, and held their teammates accountable "to the highest standards."
- They adopted "selfless" as their theme last spring when they laid plans for a 2022 season of team-first commitment.
- They dispensed with "Player of the Week" recognition, opting instead to focus on team outcomes.
- They rallied around teammates who endured injuries, loss, and trying family issues.
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