Andrew Strumolo '10.5 proves hard work pays off

Author: Kevin Carpenter

Andrew Strumolo '10.5 may be the 'Rudy' of Middlebury College. Both Strumolo and Rudy were written off by coaches early on. Both were steadfast in achieving their goals. And, ultimately, both managed to make it to the varsity squad by the same principle: hard work.

Strumolo has been exposed to soccer his entire life.

"I probably started playing around age five," he said. "My dad was always my coach, so I was always playing with him and my brothers in the front yard." He took this natural love for the game and began playing on club and travel teams until he started attending Taft, where he became the captain his senior year.

Strumolo was a viable recruit for colleges. He had considered Colorado College and Hamilton but really had his heart set on attending Middlebury as a Feb.

"I had talked to Coach Saward, but being a Feb meant that coming right in as a potential recruit was out of the question. It just wasn't in the cards when I started here," said Strumolo.

However, as many students know, being a Feb opens the door for enriching experiences. Andrew played for teams in Copenhagen and Barcelona. He even got some playing time illegally in Copenhagen. Needing Danish identification papers to play, Strumolo was signed on as 'Hans Christenson" to play a few games. Strumolo noted that "the European game was fast and helped my overall game."

Upon returning to Midd with his honed skills, Strumolo tried out for the J.V. squad, but after missing a few of the tryout dates, he was cut. He asked Coach Saward for another chance to prove himself and was given a few more days to try out. But even after making the team, he had to battle to assert himself. He said, "I started on the bottom of the chain on J.V. I had to work my way up and fight for playing time. The team was a lot of fun and I was starting by the end." His effort and natural talent impressed Coach Saward and resulted in Andrew receiving an invitation to varsity tryouts in the fall.

"I had to go into tryouts with the mindset that I had nothing to lose," said Strumolo. "Being there in the first place was a blessing and a bit surreal. It was a bit nerve-racking, but the seniors and captains helped to calm me down. I had a good tryout."

His dedication paid off. Strumolo was given a spot on the Panthers' varsity roster this fall. "It's great to be part of the team. Practices are awesome and the team chemistry is great."

"The most rewarding parts for me are being able to practice at a high level and getting to know a new group of friends," continued Strumolo. "It's a tight-knit group and they will support you through thick and thin."

When asked if he had any advice for athletes who might be trying to work their way up to a varsity spot, he said, "Work as hard as you possibly can, especially when you're alone and no one is watching. Those moments of individual training and how hard you go defines how much you want it. And always be hopeful."

Next time you attend a Panthers soccer match, keep an eye out for number 11 and think about his journey to the squad. Give Strum a good cheer. He deserves it.