As soccer season commences, Jacob Langbartels is the player to look out for on the field.

Jacob is a senior at Summit Christian Academy and has been playing soccer for 12 years and looks to continue to pursue his passion for the sport even after his senior season comes to an end. Over the years that Jacob has played soccer, he has learned to become motivated by his desire to see improvement in himself and those around him. “I am motivated by wanting to get better every time I step on the field and also making sure my teammates get better as well,” he shares.

When asked who his biggest role model is, Jacob was sure to emphasize the impact that his dad has made on him throughout his athletic career. “He has pushed me to get better and be the best I can be at everything I do for as long as I can remember.” Without the support of his dad, he would not be who he is today.

Success for Jacob did not come overnight. He had to work hard to become the impressive soccer player that many see him as. “It has taken a lot of extra hours. I’ve had many days with multiple practices and workouts to get to where I am today.”

All of his hard work has paid off in many different ways. One of the biggest highlights of Jacob’s soccer career was when his club team won the National Championship a few years ago. He says it was nice to see “a lot of hard work with an amazing group of guys finally pay off.” He has also enjoyed being appointed as team captain. “It means a lot and it feels amazing to be a captain. There’s a lot of younger guys on this team that I want to help them be the best they can, and being the captain and representing this team gives me that opportunity. Representing the community is also a big task, but one that I appreciate and plan to take seriously.”

Although Jacob’s time with Summit soccer is coming to an end, he will also be thankful for the impact that the sport has made on his life. “I am thankful to have been able to join a team of guys that also want to pursue something in athletics like myself. Surrounding myself with like-minded people has always benefitted me.”