From BMX Racing to Striker: The Evolution of Dominic Fritzges

Dominic Ryan Fritzges, a native of Eastvale, California, has carved an unconventional path to becoming a standout striker in youth soccer. Unlike many of his peers who have played soccer since they could walk, Dominic’s athletic journey began with BMX racing, scooter competitions, and motorcycle riding at a young age. It wasn’t until he was ten years old, in February 2018, that he first set foot on a soccer field. Despite starting later than most, Dominic’s passion and natural talent for the sport quickly became evident. His remarkable progress has led to his inclusion on the EXACT 11 Watchlist at the SoCal Boys Academic 50 ID Camp, a testament to his rapid rise in the competitive soccer world.

Early Beginnings and Rapid Development

Dominic’s entry into soccer was not by chance. Encouraged by his first coach, Steve Gregory, who recognized his potential, Dominic quickly fell in love with the sport. Within his first year, he transitioned from playing in a local recreational league to joining a club team, where he showcased his competitive spirit by finishing the season in first place, even playing through a broken hand. His early experiences set the tone for what would become a promising soccer career.

In November 2019, Dominic took a significant step forward by joining the SoCal Elite Club team. Despite his relative inexperience, club director David Oh saw potential in Dominic and dedicated time to nurturing his abilities. The COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges, but Dominic used the time wisely, focusing on personal development through individual training sessions and one-on-one coaching. His efforts paid off as he quickly became the leading goal scorer for his team, contributing to their success in prestigious tournaments such as the Dallas Cup and National Cup Championships.

A New Chapter with Murrieta Soccer Academy MLS Next

Dominic’s impressive performances caught the attention of scouts, and he was offered a spot on the Murrieta Soccer Academy MLS Next team. This opportunity marked a new chapter in his soccer journey, providing him with a platform to compete at an even higher level. His first season with MSA was a learning experience, filled with ups and downs due to coaching and player changes. However, Dominic used these challenges as opportunities for growth, solidifying his commitment to his soccer career.

As he enters his junior year in high school and his second season in MLS Next, Dominic is more driven than ever to achieve his goals. His aspirations extend beyond high school soccer, aiming to play at a Division 1 college, lead his future team to a division championship, and ultimately participate in the MLS SuperDraft or represent the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT).

Balancing Academics and Athletics: A Multifaceted Approach

Dominic’s dedication to soccer is matched by his commitment to academics and personal growth. He understands the importance of a balanced approach, maintaining a rigorous academic schedule while excelling on the field. Even through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dominic remained focused, maintaining his grades and demonstrating self-sufficiency and motivation. He made the Junior Varsity soccer team as a freshman and the Varsity team as a sophomore at Eleanor Roosevelt High School, a school with nearly 5,000 students.

Despite being a practice player with the Varsity team now that he’s playing for MLS Next, Dominic values the experience as it allows him to mentor younger players and continue honing his skills. His involvement with the Varsity team, even in a limited capacity, reflects his passion for soccer and his desire to contribute to the sport in any way possible.

Beyond the Pitch: A Holistic Approach to Life and Sport

Dominic’s approach to life mirrors his approach to soccer – disciplined, focused, and health-conscious. At 16, he treats his body like a finely tuned machine, adhering to a strict diet and a well-rounded workout regimen. When not training on the soccer field, Dominic can often be found surfing, a passion he has pursued since the age of six. For him, surfing is more than a hobby; it’s a form of meditation that helps him relax and reset. His love for the ocean earned him the nickname “Surfer” from Coach George Kuntz at California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), a moniker that highlights his unique blend of athleticism and calm composure.

Soccer: A Gateway to Lifelong Friendships and Opportunities

For Dominic, soccer is more than just a sport; it’s a conduit for building lasting relationships and opening doors to countless opportunities. The universal appeal of the game has allowed him to forge deep friendships and develop a support network that celebrates victories and provides encouragement through defeats. Soccer has also taught him valuable lessons in leadership, discipline, and resilience – qualities that extend beyond the field and into everyday life.

As Dominic looks to the future, his aspirations are clear: to earn a business degree while playing soccer at a Division 1 college. His college soccer goals are equally ambitious – to be a valuable player on the field and help lead his team to success. While he has expressed interest in several prestigious universities, including UCLA, CSUF, CSUN, UCI, UCSD, Ohio State, Penn State, and Cal–Berkeley, Dominic is open to any opportunity that allows him to continue his soccer journey and academic pursuits.

A Bright Future Ahead

Dominic Ryan Fritzges is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, dedication, and a love for the game. From his late start in soccer to his rapid ascent to the EXACT 11 Watchlist, Dominic’s journey is a source of inspiration for young athletes everywhere. As he continues to push towards his goals, there is no doubt that Dominic’s future in soccer – and life – is incredibly bright.