I can’t believe the season has already started. I know I got into Charlotte late for preseason, but time has been flying. We’ve already played our first regular season game in Westchester, finishing in a 1-1 draw, and just picked up a big win in the first round of the US Open Cup against FC Ristozi.
Previously, I spoke about transitions and everything that comes with a lot of change. These first few weeks have really been about finding my rhythm and understanding how I can help this team win. As a player, you always have ideas about how you’ll make an impact before you actually step into a new environment. I even wrote about some of my goals in a previous post on here. But once you’re in it, the picture of where you fit in and reality become clearer.
While I still have those previous goals in mind, I’ve had to find new ways to approach them and redefine what this experience looks like for me. Throughout preseason, I’ve played right midfield, left midfield, and had some minutes at right back. I came in expecting to bomb up and down from deeper areas, but now I’ve had to adjust my mindset. It’s actually become more attacking, which suits me, but it’s not something I’ve consistently done at the professional level.
If this is my way onto the field, then I have to take it with both hands. Even if it’s uncomfortable and unfamiliar. It’s still an opportunity to make plays. When you’re higher up the pitch, you’re judged on production. That’s the reality. If I can produce goals, assists, chances created then everything opens up (those were goals I set before the season even started funny enough)
That’s the mentality now.
5 minutes, 10 minutes, 90 minutes… it doesn’t matter. I will make an impact and I’ll enjoy myself while doing it.
Westchester Review
The match on the 14th against Westchester was a scrappy one. It was the first game of the season, which emphasized things we need to figure out as a group. I didn’t start, but I came on in the second half at right winger while we were down 1-0, looking to help find an equalizer. Honestly, when the end of a game is hectic and the ball is flying everywhere, all you can really do is get stuck in and sprint around. And that's what I did on my debut for the club. I was grateful to be on the field in the dying seconds when my guy Viggo Ortiz buried one into the bottom corner to earn us a draw which was a huge moment for the team.
US Open Cup Review
Our first home game of the season was an Open Cup match vs FC Ristozi which ended 4-1 in our favor. It was a tough battle throughout the 90 minutes but we were able to edge past our opposition with 3 late goals to break the deadlock. Once again, I came on later in the second half but this time I played on the left wing. Honestly, I really enjoyed myself playing there. I felt free, creative, dangerous, and like I provided a spark of dynamism. As a competitive person, I want to play every second of every game and not being able to do that irks me. It makes me question the path that I am on. I constantly talk about setbacks and ways to push through them with We Move athletes and others, but when those things happen in my life/career, it doesn't make the feelings that come with that any easier to deal with. In moments like these, it’s important that we keep our heads up and continue the process. Things will fall our way eventually.
Special News
Last Friday (March 20th), we celebrated Ellie’s 23rd birthday here in Charlotte! We were also joined by her brother, Ian, and his fiancé, Mallory, for this special time. It was a wholesome weekend full of fun, laughter, and family. We went to the movies, made delicious food, explored a bit of uptown, and played lots of games. I hope Ellie felt the love from us and how much of a special person she is in all of our lives. It's amazing to watch you cartwheel through life and be around your energy everyday. We all love you!
P.S. I scored my first goal for the club in our most recent game against Spokane Velocity after being subbed on in the 79th minute! Taking the opportunities as they come.
Goal Celebration 3/27/2026
