An Interview With Past HUSC Player Justin Laird

What was your jersey number with Hartford United?
15

Where are you currently playing and what position(s) are you playing?
University of Kentucky – Striker

Do you have a goal to play professional soccer after college?
Yes

Do you plan to coach once your playing career is over?
Definitely

Did you play rec soccer before coming to HUSC?
Yes I did for one year.

Were you excited or nervous to join HUSC?
With every new opportunity comes nervousness but being that the change was in 3rd grade, I feel I was more excited to meet new friends.

Any memories of that transition that you can share for new players joining us?
Its going to be an opportunity worth taking. The only way to truly be the best you can be and be the most happy with life is to risk what you have. If you’re not risking things everyday, you’re just coasting.

If you could meet up with one HUSC coach for breakfast who would it be and why?
Dave Tomashek – He was my coach back in the day and I literally wouldn’t be the player I am today without his guidance.

If you had to do it all over again, is there anything that you would do different?
Definitely. If I would’ve had the connections that I have today back in high school, I wouldn’t have gone to play NCAA ball. I would have really wanted to take care of my dreams of playing professional soccer right then and got into an academy overseas. I’m not trying to knock NCAA ball, it’s a huge accomplishment in itself, but to be the best you have to have the best training. And due to NCAA rules I wasn’t able to get the training that kids in Europe are getting in their academies.

What was most important to you in your development as a player with Hartford United SC?
Getting out of my element and being pushed.

What is your proudest accomplishment with Hartford United SC?
Being the first Hartford team to make it to the Wisconsin Premier league.

What advice would you give current players as they set goals in hopes of playing at the college level?
Play everyday. Doesn’t matter if its by yourself, getting touches on the ball daily is a necessity.

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