Athletic Persistance: A Life of Competition Beyond College

Photos and Writing by Danielle Fox

Andrew Anderson is a passionate soccer player, a dedicated athlete, and Washington State University Cougar. After being the WSU men’s soccer team President for 2 years, Andrew decided to pursue a career of sports mentorship in high school athletics. He is now training himself to join the Evergreen Premier League, a division four league in the US soccer system as he spends long hours on the field after work and school perfecting his talents as a goalkeeper. This photography essay displays the extreme talent, dedication, and passion that Andrew has for soccer as he works diligently to reach his athletic goals.

Andrew prepares for his goalkeeping practice after working, and attending classes.

Great performance on the field takes preparation off of the field; which is why Andrew stretches multiple times each day.

Being a goal keeper requires extremely accurate hand-eye coordination, which Andrew practices by juggling the ball.

Over half of Andrew’s practices are spent conducting drills to perfect his skills, and keep his body in peak athletic performance.

Andrew saves a shot that was taken by his teammate as they practice penalty kicks.

Andrew’s 60 yard punt is an impressive skill that contributes to his talent as a goalkeeper.

Andrew displays his immense effort and determination as he returns a saved ball to the field.

As the goalkeeper, Andrew has developed a deep sense of communication with the rest of his team; helping to guide players as he sees moves on the field.

The mental stress of being a goalkeeper can build immensely, but Andrew stays mentally sharp by saving goals each day.

Part of improving his talents includes watching others perform; which is why Andrew stays long after practice to watch others, and reflect upon his own practice.