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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