Schools
Congratulations To Our Patch Athlete of the Week
Woody Brink is a senior midfielder for the District Champion Sickles Boys Soccer Team
Woody is an exemplary student-athlete, whose rocky road to starting midfielder is reminiscent of his enduring character. The first-year starter for The Gryphons was still playing Little League baseball when the time came to try out for soccer. But he had the desire. Woody was working a job to help support his family, but pushed on to try out and ultimately get on the team.
“Woody was a leader on this team and was moved to defense halfway through the year," said Coach Tony Calvo. "It was because of his play that we advanced to regionals.”
Woody was voted in as a team captain this year, even though captains were chosen at the beginning of the season. His accomplishments also extend beyond the field. He is a member of Sickle’s Key Club and participates in their after-school Feed the Homeless Program.
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Westchase Patch spoke with Woody this week.
How did you get involved in soccer?
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Woody: I played as a kid, growing up in Thailand. My family and I moved to Sarasota when I was six years old. I played in the Police Athletic League for eight years. I actually played Little League Baseball for ten years. It wasn’t until the summer of my eighth grade year that I really got excited about soccer. My family took a trip to Germany to visit my cousins and they were the ones that really got me into soccer. When I came back, I signed up at HC United and played there my freshman year in high school.
What is your favorite thing about soccer?
Woody: The competitiveness. I love to use my feet. Every other sport, you use your hands, primarily. In soccer, you don’t use your hands at all. I also like the atmosphere and the toughness you have to have to play.
What are your plans for college?
Woody: Well, I have an academic scholarship to The University of Florida but I’m looking at USF also.
What is your current GPA?
Woody: 5.7. I’m ranked 8th in my senior class.
What is your favorite subject?
Woody: Math.
What is your favorite movie?
Woody: Avatar
Favorite sports team?
Woody: Tampa Bay Rays
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Woody: Doing something in engineering, maybe even the Navy.