Football Club player who has been playing as part of the 06 Atletico team for only a year but has been playing the sport for 8 years. Unlike most kids his age, his role model is not a Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. Instead, his coach Rex Mummey describes Hayden as a “student of the game” that prefers to watch and learn from all types of games from all types of players. Coach Mummey talks about how Hayden started his playing career at a center back, and how he believes that has helped his vision on the field and learn about the positions all across the pitch.
“As far as using the number system, Hayden has played in the 4, 5, 6, 8, and 9 positions on the pitch,” Coach Mummey explained. The 4, 5, and 6 positions are all defensive positions along the midfield, which relate back to his start as a center back. But his vision and footwork has also seen him migrate forward to attacking midfield options like the number 8 role, as well as the center forward position as the number 9. “He would even play keeper if I asked him too,” Coach Mummey admitted during our interview. But Hayden’s calm presence on the field and possession style of play, along with remarkable ability at set pieces, keeps him a solid contributor in the middle of the pitch. “Hayden has taken on a leadership role with the team despite being the new player,” his coach says. “He’s a very coachable kid.” Coach Mummey was full of praise for his young player, highlighting his humility and calmness not just in the game, but in his life as well. “You can tell he has great support at home as well. His family is wonderful, l and they have raised him so well.” It is part of what Knoxville Football Club are about, creating an environment to help better players as well as make them into better people, and Hayden Pendergrass is a perfect young example of that success. Congratulations Hayden and good luck with the rest of your season!