Samantha Clark of ’97 Gold Commits to Humboldt State University

Posted On November 4, 2014 by PUSC

“For the last eight years I have played for Placer United Soccer Club and learned the fundamentals of what it takes to become a great soccer player, while pushing myself to be the best I could be. I have been coached by some of the best coaches who molded me into who I am today. After years of practice, endless injuries and countless tears, I am pleased to announce that I have committed to play soccer for Humboldt State University.

First and foremost, I would like to thank my family for all the sacrifices they have made to allow me to play competitive soccer. They have cheered me on and supported me for the last eight years while putting their wants and needs aside to support me.  I don’t think I could have made it through without them in my corner. Thank you dad, mom and Alyssa for being my biggest fans. 

I would like to thank  the following coaches in no particular order; John Chimienti, for listening to me when I said I wanted to play goalie and for always demanding my best. You never accepted less than perfection and continually pushed me for more. There were times I wanted to give up and walk away from the goal but you stood by me and believed in me. I will always remember when you would yell, “Sam steal the bacon! Can you do that for me?” That was code for “Sam get the damn ball”; Gene DuChateau with whom I had the pleasure of working with in the beginning of my goalie years and who taught me the basics of goalkeeping; Matt Scammacca, the one coach who truly believed I could play at the collegiate level despite my size. He listened to me and never stopped encouraging me; Matt Bernard, the coach who calls me “Loom-pah” “midget” and tells me I need to get taller. I wouldn’t have made this if it weren’t for you. You are one of the best goalie coaches I have ever had the honor to train with. Thank you for everything.

Lastly to Ron Benjamin and Todd DeCarlo, thank you for the continued support throughout the entire college process. You have coached me during my best performances and supported me through my worst performances. You have seen me grow up in the club and have always been there to provide positive feedback. Thank you for all you did for me.

I will miss everyone, my coaches, my teammates and the Placer United Soccer Club. I am who I am today because of everyone that took the time to help me. I look forward to playing collegiate soccer at Humboldt  and I hope I make Placer proud. It was this club who got me to the next level.  GO JACKS!”