Ethan Sokolowski Leads Nation in Saves

SOLON, OH- As the inaugural soccer season came to an end, sophomore goalkeeper Ethan Sokolowski's talents were on full display. He officially led the nation in saves, with 139. He also registered a .675 save percentage. Sokolowski is from LaGrange, Ohio and attended Keystone High School before finding Bryant & Stratton College.  

"Leading the nation in saves was an amazing accomplishment for me, especially since it was my first year ever playing goalie. I gave up soccer when I was 12 years old and I never would've thought I'd be in this position, but then I was given the opportunity to join the soccer team at Bryant & Stratton and here I am, it's surreal. This feat has given me way more confidence in myself. It shows me I can do anything I put my mind to'' Sokolowski shared. 

Sokolowski said a lot of individual success during the season came from studying film and learning from his mistakes. He also credits his coaches; Luciano Ruscitto and Chris Lapaglia, and believes all these things will help him build his confidence as he works towards next season. 

"I'm capable of being a goalkeeper." he said. "With the confidence I've gained and getting one on one goalie training this offseason, I feel that next season will be even better." 

"The coaches realized we needed someone to step up for goalkeeper and believed I could be the man for the job." Sokolowski said. "I took every piece of advice they gave me and did the best I could. It was them believing in me that gave me the confidence to perform as well as I did.'' 

Sokolowski mentions the team faced a lot of adversity as the season progressed due to the smaller roster size, but the team never gave up and continued to push through the tough games. 

At Bryant & Stratton, Sokolowski also plays on the Bobcats basketball team.  

"Being a part of a team is like having another family." Sokolowski explains. "That's my favorite thing about playing basketball and soccer. I have always played sports my entire life, so it feels right for me to be where I am. Playing sports has had such a positive effect on me physically and mentally as a person. I have learned  to not take my athletic career for granted, because who knows how long I will get to continue playing. 

Sokolowski is looking forward to what lies ahead and feels he has begun a new chapter in his life.