Joseph’s Story
Soccer was Joseph’s passion, and his journey began in first grade when he started recreational soccer with the Greater Libertyville Soccer Association (GLSA). A year later, he transitioned to play travel soccer with the club. After his 8 year career with GLSA, Joseph joined the Chicago Fire Academy team during high school and eventually won the USSDA National Championship in 2015 as the starting midfielder.
Following the national championship, Joseph decided to play for the VHHS varsity team during his senior year of high school. He made an instant impact, contributing 8 goals and 15 assists and eventually became an All-Conference, All-Area, and All-State student-athlete. After high school, Joseph went on to play Division I soccer for Brown University where he played in 50 games.
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Joseph would often find as many opportunities as he could to play in pick-up games or train with friends because he enjoyed it and knew it would help him develop as a player. He would spend time in the backyard by himself setting up cones and running drills to stay on top of his game. Although he was often very busy playing soccer, Joseph also continuously worked hard to maintain high grades. Most days, he could be found doing homework or studying in the morning before class, during lunch, or in between class periods since he knew he would be busy after school was out. Thanks to his hard work, Joseph became an Honors graduate and an Illinois State Scholar at Vernon Hills High School in 2016.
Although Joseph accomplished many things during his life, he never sought to bring much attention to his own accomplishments. Instead he loved spending time with others and seeing them succeed. His friends and family attest to how he would encourage, push, and celebrate a win of any kind. As much as he loved the game, he knew that life was more than just soccer. On and off the field, he knew he was a brother, son, and friend first - a soccer player second.
On the morning of Joseph’s last day on Earth, Joseph’s parents heard him singing worship songs in the house. One of those songs was “Once Again” by Matt Redman. It is through this organization that his song and spirit continue to touch those around him today.
