The club soccer team at Seton Hall shared their experiences of perseverance and teamwork as they take on another season of both career and athletic goals.
Anthony Surdo, a senior finance major and co-captain of the team, said he originally started off playing football but switched to soccer after five years. He said being part of the team is about more than just playing soccer.
“Balancing academics and being a team captain can be challenging at times but that is what this journey of self and communal discovery is all about,” Surdo said. “It requires strong time management skills and dedication–facets that will carry us through subsequent stages of our lives.”
Surdo said he has loved soccer his whole life, from when he started playing at a young age to when he joined the club soccer team.
“It's similar to why I grew a love for sports initially,” Surdo said. “It provides a sense of family and a chance to continue competing at a high level.”
Surdo said he recommends joining the team for any students interested.
“It's not just about soccer,” Surdo said, “It's about being part of something bigger than yourself and creating lasting memories that will take you far in life.”
Alex Rosario, a junior social and behavioral sciences major and member of the team, said he agrees that playing for the club soccer team is a great experience.
“I think it's an awesome way to make connections and build friendships, especially as a commuter like me,” Rosario said. “I met a bunch of great guys these last three seasons and made some strong friendships.”
Rosario also said he believes the team captains put in a bit more time than the average player.
Mason Walczak, a senior nursing major and co-captain of the team, said he has been playing soccer since he was four years old. He said the club soccer team was one of the factors that led him to Seton Hall.
“When choosing colleges, I found myself having to pick soccer or nursing,” Walczak said. “This club team is the perfect environment for both where I can stay competitive and play soccer but also get to pursue my career for the future.”
Walczak said he is grateful for the opportunity to play the sport he loves while pursuing his academic goals. He also said he is thankful for his two co-captains who help make the games possible.
“I could not do this role by myself,” Walczak said. “My co-captains, Andrew Luehrs and Anthony Surdo work together to achieve all those goals.”
Matthew Mendives can be reached at matthew.mendives@student.shu.edu
