BRIAN DURAN BEGAN PLAYING SOCCER WHEN HE WAS 8 YEARS OLD AND HAS BEEN PART OF LANIER SOCCER Association since. He is the goalkeeper for the LSA U14 DA team coached by Henry Rohde and Diego Vacca. “Brian has been a great asset to our team,” Rohde said. “His dedication, work ethic, and passion for the game have helped him to become a better soccer player. He is a very coachable player — always seeking ways to improve. He puts in a lot of effort during training sessions and goalkeeping practices. Also, he has always received tremendous support from his family and teammates.” Rohde points out that, as a goalkeeper, Brian understands that soccer is a team sport and he is willing to sacrifice for team. His ability to defend his goal with great timing and quick reflections has helped his team to compete at a higher level. “He’s always giving his all. He’s a very tough kid and he’s not afraid of challenges,” Rohde sums up. Brian isn’t just an accomplished player. He has gained the trust of his teammates, and it has helped him to become a good leader. Coaches say Brian helps the team to be organized and gives them direction when they need it. “His confidence has helped him to become of one the leaders of the team.” Rohde says. “Brian is very soft-spoken outside the pitch but he is very vocal when playing the game.” Given a chance to brag on the young man’s best traits, Rohde said: “Brian is a hard worker and always ready to compete. He has a great passion for the game, and his teammates rely on and trust him protecting the goal. Brian is a great representative of the club. His consistency has gained him notice. He has been invited to the US Soccer Training Center twice and has done really well.”