The winner of the Academy Sports + Outdoors Player Spotlight for August is AJ Stella! He will win a $50 Academy Sports + Outdoors giftcard and an Orlando City SC Prize Pack! Do you know an exceptional youth soccer player you would like to nominate? Fill out the form, here.
Let's meet AJ.
Name: Andrew Stella (AJ)
- Team: Port Saint John United
- Position: Center Back
- When did you start playing soccer and why? I officially started playing in 2003 at age 5 but my dad had me kicking the ball as soon as I could walk.
- What does being a leader mean to you? Keeping other players motivated.
- Name a teammate or coach that inspires you and why? Coach Jim Clark, He always pushes me to surpass my limits and believes in my abilities.
- Who is your favorite professional player? Aurelien Collin
- What are some of your goals for the next year on and off the pitch? Stay in shape, be the best I can. Make my High School Varsity team and not miss a match. Succeed in my School classes.
- Describe your favorite soccer moment in your career. I actually have two: Clearing the ball from my own 18yd box and Hanging the opposing keeper, scoring the goal. Also, During my first High School JV season, the other team took a shot and I headed a sure goal up and over the frame.
