Big South soccer fields are heating up, and Winthrop men’s soccer is led this year by an experienced group of seniors. One of those leaders, redshirt-senior Jordan Walshaw, was named the Big South Men’s Soccer Attacking Player of the Week for the opening week of play.
“I was happy with the news and it was nice to be rewarded for a positive start to the season,” Walshaw said.
To begin the 2019 season, Winthrop men’s soccer went 1–1 against Virginia Military Institute and Mount St. Mary’s.
According to Big South Sports, Walshaw contributed a goal, three assists, and aided four of five of the Eagles’ season opening goals. His use of skill and technique helped him peg the honor, which he received on Sept. 3.
“Attacking is ultimately trying your best to score goals and assist goals for your team,” Walshaw said. “Techniques involve being good on the ball, being able to dribble, have an eye for a pass, being composed in front of the goal to score, and also having good movement and speed.”
Walshaw hails from England, and began playing soccer when he was five years old. During his teen years, he suited up for the Sheffield Wednesday and the Chesterfield FC—both of England. After 13 years, Walshaw made the transition to American fields.
Walshaw faced a few setbacks resulting from injuries in his first couple seasons at Winthrop, but hopes to keep up good health for the remainder of this season.
Part of his health regimen is found in his pre-game routine.
“I have certain foods I like to eat before a game at certain times to get properly prepared for the game,” Walshaw said.
Walshaw notes that playing the sport is not only about physical ability, but about mental readiness as well.
“I am quite quiet on game days, and I like to keep to myself to prepare,” Walshaw said. “The night before, I will start thinking about the game and how I want to affect it.”
Walshaw acknowledged that being honored by the Big South after rebounding from early career injuries makes it even more special.
“To get back somewhere close to how I played before was huge encouragement for myself and the hard work I have put in over a sticky couple of seasons,” Walshaw said.
With his health stable and this honor to his name, Walshaw is anticipating a productive 2019 season.
“I am hoping to contribute as much as I can to the team with goals, assists and good performances that will help give our team the best chance of winning football matches,” Walshaw said.
This is the first conference weekly award for Walshaw, and he hopes to continue to build on his early success.
“Hopefully this season can be a successful one both as a team and individually,” Walshaw said.
Photo courtesy of Winthrop Athletics
