With 19 nationalities represented across its roster and coaching staff, Marian University’s men’s soccer team brings together student-athletes from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. While each player has a different story about how they arrived in America, many share the same goals: pursuing an education, competing at a high level, and building relationships through soccer.
For junior Samuel Wehaus, that journey began in Stuttgart, Germany. He came to Marian with two goals: to continue his soccer career and earn his finance degree.
Coming to the United States has given Samuel the opportunity to experience a different culture while learning from teammates from around the world. He believes that, despite their different backgrounds, a shared passion for soccer creates an immediate connection.
“You get to know a lot of people through soccer. You have a new family from the beginning,” Samuel said.
Junior Charlie Piper, from England, has felt that sense of family in America.
Charlie came to Marian after spending two years at a junior college. One experience that gave him a new perspective on American culture was celebrating Thanksgiving with American teammates and their families.
“It was different from what I was used to in England, especially seeing how important the holiday is for spending time with family, sharing a big meal, and showing gratitude,” Charlie said.
For both Samuel and Charlie, their time at Marian has become more than playing soccer and earning a degree. It has helped them build friendships, experience new cultures, and create relationships that can last long after college.
Charlie hopes to carry the lessons and experiences from his time at Marian with him long after graduation.
“I hope to have the belief that I gave 110% in everything I took part in, classes and on the soccer pitch, and never shied away from any opportunity and made the most of my time whilst being here,” Charlie said.
From Germany and England to the many other countries represented on the roster, each student-athlete brings a part of home to Marian. Through soccer, those cultures become part of the team's everyday life, creating a shared experience that extends beyond the field.