In the competitive world of youth soccer, being named to the EXACT 11 Watchlist is a prestigious honor. It’s a recognition that not only highlights a player’s talent but also their potential to impact the game at the highest levels. For Vance Krutikov, a standout forward from Austin, Texas, this honor is a testament to his dedication, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence on the soccer field.

Early Passion and Development
Vance Krutikov’s journey in soccer began at a young age. Growing up in Austin, Texas, he quickly developed a love for the game that would shape his life in ways he never imagined. Standing at an imposing 6’5” and weighing 180 pounds, Vance’s physical attributes make him a formidable presence on the pitch. However, it’s his game intelligence, timing, and finishing ability with both feet that truly set him apart.

Playing for Junior FC, Vance has honed his skills to become a target man who is not only fast but also effective in aerial duels and finishing opportunities. His ability to read the game and make well-timed runs has earned him the reputation of being a highly intelligent player with a knack for finding the back of the net.

Dominating the Catalan Second Division
One of Vance’s most impressive achievements came during his time playing in the Catalan Second Division. Competing in one of the most challenging leagues in Spain, Vance demonstrated his scoring prowess by leading the league in goals-per-90-minutes and contributing to a great season for his team. This is a clear indicator of his effectiveness on the field, highlighting his ability to make the most of every opportunity he gets.

Whether it’s with a powerful header, a well-placed shot with his right foot, or a composed finish with his left, Vance has consistently shown that he is a clinical finisher. His performances in the Catalan Second Division have not only earned him recognition but have also set him up as a player to watch in the coming years.

Standing Out at the EXACT Academic 50 ID Camps
Vance’s talent was further showcased during his participation in the EXACT Academic 50 ID camps in Dallas, TX, and Chicago, IL. These camps, known for attracting some of the best high school soccer players in the country, provided Vance with the platform to demonstrate his skills in front of college coaches and scouts.

At the Midwest camp, Vance’s performance was nothing short of exceptional. His ability to dominate in the air, coupled with his precise finishing, earned him a selection to the All-Star game—a clear indication of his standing among the top players at the camp. As a standard bearer at the camp, Vance exemplified the qualities that coaches and scouts look for in a forward: athleticism, intelligence, and a relentless work ethic.

The EXACT 11 Watchlist: A Well-Deserved Recognition
Being named to the EXACT 11 Watchlist is a significant milestone in Vance’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 Vance, this recognition is a validation of the countless hours of hard work he has put into his craft.

But for Vance, 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, Vance remains focused on his ultimate goal: to prove himself at the collegiate level and beyond.

The Future: Finding the Right College Program
As Vance looks to the future, his aspirations are clear. He dreams of playing soccer at the collegiate level, preferably in a program that likes to play on the attack and bring the game to the opponent. Vance is looking for a college that not only values his on-field abilities but also provides an environment where he can continue to grow as a player and a person.

His love for soccer is rooted in the process of improvement. Vance approaches each day with the goal of getting at least 1% better every time he steps onto the pitch. This mindset, combined with his natural talent, makes him an exciting prospect for any college program looking to bolster its attacking options.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
Vance Krutikov’s journey in soccer has been marked by a steady progression of achievements, from his impactful contributions for his team in the Catalan Second Division to being named to the EXACT 11 Watchlist. His combination of physical attributes, game intelligence, and finishing ability makes him a standout forward with a bright future ahead.

As Vance continues to develop as a player, there is little doubt that his hard work and dedication will lead to even greater success. Whether it’s at the collegiate level or beyond, Vance Krutikov is a name to watch in the world of soccer. The future holds great promise for this talented young forward, and we look forward to seeing where his journey will take him next.