How old were you when you first started playing, who taught you to play and who most influenced your development as a young player?
I started playing at the age of seven during youth summer league in Kenosha. Some classmates' fathers helped teach me the basics of the game when I was first introduced to it.
My dad has been pivotal in my development by providing quality insight and encouragement. Sole has been one of the most important figures of my development. I went to the Wind at the age of 11 and he's helped to the fullest to shape the player I am now as how I view the game.

What's been the single best moment of your soccer career thus far, at any level of competition?
Representing my national team at the U-14, U-15, U-17 and U-18 levels, by far.

What are your long-term goals in the sport?
To play professionally in the MLS, Europe, or both. Also, to play with the full national team in a World Cup.

What has been the most valuable aspect of being trained by the Academy coaches?
The professionalism that comes along with training is very valuable. The attention to detail that TK, Larry, Flex and Caddy demand creates an intense but nice environment to train and play in.

What has training with the Academy taught you about yourself as a player and where do you need improvement?
My left will always need improvement and my heading on the attacking and on the ball needs work. I could definitely be more vocal and I could be more positive to those who need more encouragement than others.

What is the most difficult part of training with the Academy?
Technique is probably the most challenging aspect of training sessions. It's physically taxing and it requires 110 percent mental focus as well as perfection on the end of footwork.

Does the training differ from past training you've had, and in what way?
Yes, the training is much higher and the focus on getting to the goal quickly is more emphasized, compared to past training where more emphasis was based on possession and waiting for the right times to attack.

Which of your Academy teammates impresses you the most and why?
Victor Pineda is a joy to watch and to play with. His bag of skills is incredible and it is a joy to play with him week in and week out and with the national team.
Drew Conner is the best player technically at the club in my eyes. His first touch and ball control are amazing.

Which of the other U-16 or U-18 Academy players impresses you and why?
Connor Holloway has a great work ethic which has paid dividends to his quality. His touch, vision and simplicity make him invaluable to the U-18's.
Billy McGuinness is the leader of the U-18's. He's by far the best defender that I've played with and a great leader. He wins balls, goes hard into tackles and isn't afraid to do what needs to be done to win. I believe it's an injustice that he hasn't been called into national team camps.