Will Bates sat down with Assistant Director of Coaching, Matt Kirkpatrick, to discuss his latest call up to the U-18 Men’s National team and life as a Richmond Striker!

How long have you been with the Richmond Strikers?

I switched clubs from Chesterfield United to Richmond Strikers when I was a U14 player for Super Y and the Elite team U15 on.

How did you hear the news about your latest call up to the U-18 MNT? How did you feel?

The US U18 National Team manager called me Monday, January 7^th, and I was extremely excited to hear the news.  It has been my goal this season to get to play again with the national team programs.

When is the camp?

The camp is from Thursday, January 17^th- Thursday, January 24^th.

Where will the camp be held?

The camp will be held in Bradenton, Florida at IMG Academies.

What is the one thing you are looking forward to the most about the camp?

I am looking forward to playing versus the most elite players of my age.  I enjoy playing versus kids that I normally don’t play against and I also get the chance to meet new people from all around the country.

What is your favorite thing about the Richmond Strikers?

I love the facilities we have at Striker Park.  The fields are the best that we play on and the coaches create professional training environments.

How many academy goals have you scored (including showcases/tournaments)?

I have not kept track but it is somewhere around ten probably.

How are Erwan and Trevor?

Erwan and Trevor are both great coaches.  Erwan is very intense at every practice session and is a great game coach.  Trevor is a professional at fitness training.  Every Tuesday when we have practice, Trevor runs us through an intense fitness session to keep us in shape and our bodies strong.

Which Strikers players do you have the best understanding with?

Brian Ownby – we play forward together and we have the same style of play.  Also, I see where he is going to be and we connect well with each other.

Are you planning to go to college? If so, what will your goals be?

I am planning on going to college and I have high hopes of playing Division I soccer.

 Who has been the biggest influence on your soccer career?

My parents have been a huge influence on me throughout the years of soccer.  They are very strict about making as many practices as possible and keep me focused on the game at all times.

Who is your favorite club team overseas?

Manchester United – often times, people tell me that I remind them of Wayne Rooney. 

Who is your favorite MLS club?

DC United – they are the closest club to where we live and have produced many great players.

What hobbies do you have?

I like to play basketball, swim, go out with friends, and snowboarding.

Favorite vacation spot?

Destin, Florida – we have traveled here for many Spring Break trips and I always enjoy the weather and beach.

Describe the best goal you have ever scored?

I was playing for Thomas Dale HS in the Central District final, versus Prince George HS.  The game was tied 0-0 nearing halftime when Dustin Heling crossed the ball from the right side and I scored a diving header to put us ahead 1-0.