Graduation is a mosaic of emotions for seniors—some are happy, some are scared, and some are thankful to have been a part of the ride. Fifth-year Carleton Ravens men’s soccer forward Andrew Bryan falls into the latter category.
After joining the Ravens in 2015 from Concordia, the Montreal-born soccer player brought a wealth of experience to the team, which helped them advance to the Ontario University Athletics quarter-finals where they were beaten by the University of Toronto Varsity Blues this season.
Due to an injury, he only played eight games this season, but was still able to record two goals and an assist.
The Charlatan spoke with Bryan to learn about the lessons he’s learned on and off the field.
The Charlatan (TC): You’re a student, so you’re learning in the classroom, but what have you learned on the field?
Andrew Bryan (AB): I’ve learned a couple of things, one of them being resilience. Working hard day in and day out, you have to be strong to get through each day, whether it’s on the field or in the classroom. You have to put your head down, be strong and work hard no matter the situation.
The second is how to be a good teammate. At the end of the day, each individual in that locker room is a part of your family. We share a common bond that not many others get to share. I learned how to be there for each individual on that team.
TC: For the past few years, a large part of you has been defined by your role as a varsity athlete. What are you going to do now that that’s over?
AB: Once I graduate, I’d like to get a job within the government in human resources. It’s a part of the reason for coming to Ottawa and it’s on my radar for a while, and hopefully I’ll be able to get it.
TC: Do you think that you’ll continue to be involved in soccer?
AB: Soccer is something I don’t think I’ll ever lose the passion for. I’d definitely like to continue playing at the highest level possible, but I know that if [and] when it’s time to hang up the boots, I’ll definitely end up coaching and giving back to the game that gave me so much.
TC: What were some of the highlights of your two seasons as a Raven?
AB: I would say that a highlight for me would be watching each and every one of the guys contribute to the team this season. Watching the team come together as we did in what should have been a building year was such a good feeling.
TC: In addition to that, what would you say the best part of being a Raven was?
AB: The best part for me would be how the team is so well organized. As players we are treated very well and it’s a privilege to play for this school. From the facilities to the staff to the alumni association, we are given the tools to succeed and we’re taken care of so well. It’s the closest one can get to professionalism which makes this program so unique.
