The score is tied. With the game on the line he drives the ball down-field. Heart pumping with adrenaline as he shakes past a defender. Now the only obstacle in his way of the game winning goal is wearing a long sleeve shirt, a different jersey than his teammates, and a pair of gloves. He takes the shot. The crowd cheers with excitement as the ball finds its way to the back of the net. The Dalmatians win.

Since the days of enjoying sliced oranges after his game or getting the routine McDonalds on the drive home, Aaron Kurtz has had the dream of playing soccer his whole life. His dream continues as of Feb. 25 when he signed with Wayland Baptist University.

“My goal is to get a higher education, play soccer, and survive college,” Kurtz said.  “I think college soccer will be better.”

Kurtz currently plays soccer for Rider and competitively with Express Soccer.

“I always seem to enjoy competitive more because you surrounded by people who want to be out there,” Kurtz said. “I’m not saying high school kids don’t want to play but people out there have to pay, so they are actually trying.”

Kurtz’s parents support him in his chosen plans.

“My mom is really excited,” Kurtz said. “She just can’t wait to see me play some college ball.”

Kurtz hopes to be a starter by the beginning of his Sophomore year.

“The coaches there are really cool,” Kurtz said. “If you work your butt off, you’ll get to play.”

As the days near, Kurtz’s dreams get closer and closer.

“I love it all,” Kurtz said. “When you get a sweet goal or something and the crowd goes wild — it’s just amazing.”