May 25, 2017 USL Toronto FC II--We Are TFC II - Brian James (from torontofc.ca)
We Are TFC II - Brian James May 25, 2017 8:52AM EDT Adam Krueger On this week’s edition of We Are TFC II we sit down with second-year midfielder Brian James. What has been your favourite moment in your soccer career thus far? James: Signing my first pro contract with Toronto FC II. At what moment did you know you could go pro? James: After I was called into the US U-18 National Team Camp. What was your first thought when you were selected by Toronto FC in the SuperDraft? James: It was a crazy moment. I didn’t think I was going to get picked. So when my name came up I was pretty ecstatic. I immediately called my dad. I told him it’s official, it’s on the website. We shared a nice moment. You spent some time with the first team in training camp, what was that experience like? James: It was a great experience. Learning from some of the top guys in the world. Their movement and positioning on and off the ball, their awareness it is a big difference at the next level. Did any of the first teamers take you under their wing a little? Show you the ropes? James: Every now and then some of the guys would give me little tips. Michael Bradley, Jonathan Osorio helped. Benoit Cheyrou really helped me out whenever I needed it. If I had a question, I could go to him. Do you have a coach/mentor that has impacted your soccer career? James: My dad. He has been my coach since I could walk, all the way through high school. Taught me almost everything I know. Your dad played professional soccer for a couple years; did he have any advice for you before you signed? James: He told me to keep doing what I was doing. He said I was on the right path to be successful. Personally, I always wanted to be better than him. That’s my goal, to accomplish more than he did. A player you like to model your game after? James: Toni Kroos. Very simple and complete player, Very technical on the ball. Taking a quick look at your phone, which photo in it means the most to you? James: It is actually a quote. “Never trade the thrills of living for the security of existence. “ How do you like to spend your free time? James: Sleeping at a beach/pool. Do you have a favourite movie? James: Dark Knight Rises. Big Batman fan? James: Huge Batman fan, but in the Dark Knight Rises I really like Bane. He’s a great character. Music Artist? James: Popcaan How have you found the adjustment to life in Toronto/Canada? James: I found it easy to adjust. Everyone was very welcoming and really made me feel at home. Favourite thing about the city? James: I love it here but I do miss the beach… but I love the city. I did not know what I was getting into here but since coming up here, I tell everyone I recommend taking a trip to Toronto. What do you miss the most about home? James: The weather and the beach. What was the soccer scene like back home? James: It was very competitive and technical. But we did not have any MLS like facilities.
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