In the world of youth sports, few accolades carry as much weight as being named to the EXACT 11 Watchlist. For Rian Derrick, a standout goalkeeper from Amarillo, Texas, this honor is not just a recognition of his talent but a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence, both on and off the field.

Early Beginnings: A Striker Turned Goalkeeper
Rian Derrick’s journey in soccer began not as a goalkeeper, but as a striker. Like many young players, Rian initially enjoyed the thrill of scoring goals. However, it wasn’t until middle school that he discovered his true calling between the posts. The transition from striker to goalkeeper is no small feat, requiring a complete shift in mindset and skill set. But for Rian, it was a natural progression.

Quickly establishing himself as one of the best in his area, Rian’s agility, quick reflexes, and natural shot-stopping ability made him a formidable presence in goal. By the time he reached high school, he had already made a name for himself, earning a spot on the varsity team as a freshman. By his sophomore year, he had solidified his position as the full-time starter for the Amarillo High Sandies, a testament to his skill and determination.

Balancing Academics and Athletics
While Rian’s talent on the field is undeniable, his commitment to academics is equally impressive. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout his high school career, Rian has earned multiple academic awards, including the Superintendent’s Scholars award for four consecutive semesters. This balance between academics and athletics speaks volumes about Rian’s work ethic and his understanding of the importance of a well-rounded education.

For Rian, success in soccer is not just about being the best player on the field—it’s about being the best student in the classroom as well. His dedication to his studies, particularly in the field of engineering, is evident in his desire to pursue a degree in Mechanical or Civil Engineering. With a natural aptitude for math and a passion for building things, Rian’s future in engineering looks as promising as his soccer career.

Shining at the EXACT Southwest Academic 50 ID Camp
In 2024, Rian had the opportunity to showcase his skills at the EXACT Southwest Academic 50 ID Camp in Dallas, Texas. This camp, known for attracting some of the best high school soccer players in the region, provided Rian with a platform to demonstrate his abilities in front of college coaches and scouts. And Rian did not disappoint.

His agility, shot-stopping abilities, and superior communication skills made him a standout at the camp. Whether it was making a crucial save or organizing his defense, Rian’s confidence and command of the penalty area were evident to all who watched him play. His performance earned him a well-deserved spot in the camp’s All-Star showcase, a further testament to his abilities.

The EXACT 11 Watchlist: A Milestone Achievement
Being named to the EXACT 11 Watchlist is a significant milestone in Rian’s soccer journey. This prestigious list recognizes the top athletes at EXACT Sports camps, highlighting those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and potential. For Rian, being included on this list is a validation of the countless hours of training, preparation, and hard work he has put into his craft.

But for Rian, this recognition is not an endpoint—it’s a stepping stone. His desire to achieve excellence pushes him each day to be the best player on the field, and he knows that there is always room for improvement. As he continues to develop his skills, both physically and mentally, Rian remains focused on his ultimate goal: to prove himself at the collegiate level and beyond.

The Future: A Bright Path Ahead
As Rian looks to the future, his aspirations are clear. He dreams of playing soccer at the collegiate level, preferably in the Southwestern region of the United States, though he is also open to opportunities in North and South Carolina, where he has family ties. His goal is to find a school where he can continue to develop as a player while pursuing his academic interests in engineering.

Rian’s love for soccer is rooted in the competition it provides. He enjoys the opportunity to shine as an individual, showcasing the hard work he has put into training and preparation. But he also understands the importance of being a part of a team, where selflessness and support are crucial to success. It’s this balance between individual excellence and team cohesion that makes soccer such a fulfilling pursuit for Rian.

The Impact of Soccer: Beyond the Game
For Rian, soccer is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life. It has taught him valuable lessons about discipline, perseverance, and the importance of hard work. It has also given him the confidence to take on challenges both on and off the field, knowing that his preparation and dedication will see him through.

Rian’s journey in soccer has been marked by a steady progression of achievements, from making the varsity team as a freshman to being named to the EXACT 11 Watchlist. But perhaps the most important lesson he has learned is that success is not just about winning awards or accolades—it’s about pushing yourself to be the best you can be, every single day.

Conclusion: A Promising Future
As Rian Derrick continues to develop as a goalkeeper and a student, there is no doubt that his future is bright. His combination of talent, work ethic, and intelligence makes him a standout both on the field and in the classroom. And with his inclusion on the EXACT 11 Watchlist, Rian has taken another important step towards achieving his goals.

For Rian, the journey is just beginning. But with his determination and drive, there is little doubt that he will continue to rise above the rest, both as a soccer player and as a student. The future holds great promise for this talented young goalkeeper, and we look forward to seeing where his journey will take him next.