Senior inks Braden River's first soccer scholarship

BRADEN RIVER — Tyler Marshall has spent the past 11 years working on his game.

The Braden River senior focused countless hours increasing his speed, strength and endurance — all with the goal of one day following in the footsteps of his coaches.

On April 3, Marshall saw his hard work pay off when he signed a national letter-of-intent to play soccer for West Virginia Wesleyan College.

Surrounded by his family, friends, teammates and coaches, Marshall became the first Braden River soccer player to earn a scholarship to play at the next level.

“It feels amazing,” Marshall said. “I’m relieved and pretty excited.”

Marshall chose West Virginia Wesleyan College over Lees-McRae College, in Banner Elk, N.C., not only because the school offered him a full ride but also because his FC Sarasota U18 coach Adam DeClerico played there.

Looking for something new, Marshall, who had played a variety of sports growing up, starting playing soccer when he was 6 years old. Since then, Marshall has played on a number of club teams and also helped lead the Pirates to the regional tournament this past season.

“I love the teamwork — and that you’ll always be able to get better and basically help the team,” Marshall said.

Now with his senior season behind him, Marshall, who plans to major in business management, will spend the remainder of the spring and summer playing for FC Sarasota and the SUFC Premier men’s team before heading up to West Virginia Wesleyan College, where he hopes to make an immediate impact.

“The coach said he wants me to come in and start right away,” Marshall said. “I’m excited and honored. Now, I just have to continue to work hard, so I’m in shape.

“I’m going to have to get faster and stronger,” Marshall said. “Of course, the nerves and excitement will kick in, but I’ve got to stay calm and relaxed.”

Contact Jen Blanco at [email protected].