News Summary

Jamis Matlock’s journey from high school athlete in Crested Butte to professional soccer player with Robina City FC in Australia showcases resilience, hard work, and determination. After facing challenges breaking into collegiate soccer, he found success through the Pre College Development Academy. Now thriving in Australia, he balances education at Griffith University while pursuing his soccer ambitions, inspiring local players to persevere in their dreams.

The Inspiring Journey of Jamis Matlock: From High School Setbacks to Professional Soccer in Australia

In the picturesque town of Crested Butte, a remarkable story has emerged of resilience and determination as Jamis Matlock takes his soccer aspirations to new heights. This 2023 graduate of Crested Butte Community School faced various challenges throughout his athletic journey, making his current success as a professional soccer player in Australia all the more inspiring.

A Talented Start

Jamis always had a passion for soccer, establishing a solid reputation as a center midfielder for the Crested Butte Titans. His high school years were filled with triumphs, showcasing his skills and love for the game. However, upon graduating, Jamis faced an unexpected hurdle—gaining interest from collegiate soccer programs in the U.S. proved to be tougher than anticipated.

Turning Point: The Pre College Development Academy

Just as things seemed bleak, Jamis’s mother discovered the Pre College Development Academy (PCDA) in Nashville, Tennessee. With hope restored, he packed his bags and trained intensively at the academy for one to two years. The path was not easy, as Jamis described the academy as a developing program filled with challenges.

Training at PCDA meant adhering to a rigorous schedule: six days a week of grueling sessions, which sometimes included two training periods a day plus games. Though dedicated, the intensity eventually wore on him, leading to feelings of burnout. Recognizing the need to reassess, Jamis decided to refocus on both his education and playing soccer at a more manageable level.

Exploring Opportunities in Australia

With dual citizenship thanks to his Australian father, Jamis began to explore universities down under, specifically seeking options in the Gold Coast area. He found his footing by enrolling at Griffith University, but to his surprise, there were no university soccer programs there, unlike those in the U.S.

Undeterred, he continued his search and stumbled upon Robina City FC. After reaching out to the coach, Jamis took part in the club’s trials, showcasing his talent and ultimately earning a position on their u23 team. His hard work paid off when he was quickly promoted to the professional side of Robina City FC, competing in the QP2 division.

A New Chapter in Professional Soccer

Now part of a burgeoning team, Jamis is either rocking a starting position as a defensive center midfielder or stepping in as the first substitute when needed. The feeling of receiving his first paycheck as a professional athlete marks a significant shift from the hefty $40,000 annual fee he faced at PCDA. Plus, he noted that the level of competition and quality at Robina City FC exceeded his experiences back in Nashville.

The club’s training regimen consists of two training sessions per week, complemented by a weekend game. Currently, Jamis’s team sits at the peak of the QP2 league standings, uniting a mix of young talent and seasoned international professionals. The camaraderie within the club is palpable, with all players sharing the same ambitious goal: to win the league and secure promotion to QP1.

A Supportive and Team-Oriented Culture

Jamis appreciates the vibrant culture surrounding Robina City FC, particularly the owner’s commitment to attending every game and supporting the squad. Balancing soccer and education is no easy feat, but Jamis continues his studies at Griffith University while pursuing his athletic dreams.

A Message of Hope for Local Players

As he forges onward in his professional journey, Jamis Matlock encourages aspiring soccer players in Crested Butte to maintain their dreams and never lose hope. With patience and persistence, it is possible to carve out a future in soccer even after high school.

Adding to the excitement, the West Elk Soccer Association is currently hosting annual camps in collaboration with the renowned Futedu Academy from Spain. These camps offer a fantastic opportunity for local players to learn and improve their skills, providing the encouragement they need to pursue their soccer aspirations just like Jamis has!

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