Fall Charge -- Matt Owusu (Men's Soccer) - Bucknell University Athletics

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Dear Bucknell Men's Soccer Community,

Soccer has always been a priority since I was a young boy. I never knew exactly what I wanted to do with the talent I was given, but I always knew I wanted to contribute towards the best interest of a team that I loved. After eighteen years of playing the sport I love, Bucknell University allowed me to contribute my talents to their team. This is an honor and privilege that I will remember for the rest of my life and will always cherish deeply. The victories and hardships I have experienced have all been worth it because of the bonds of everlasting friendship I have formed with my teammates. Thank you, Bucknell University, for giving me this opportunity.

I am now halfway through my senior season and have had time to reflect upon my time here at Bucknell, on and off the field. My four years as a member of the Bucknell men’s soccer team have been a rollercoaster in every way. COVID-19 tarnished my freshman season. The season was canceled, yet I was lucky enough to compete in a shortened season in the spring. My sophomore year campaign began with the stepping down of the coach who recruited me to play for his team and the stepping up of our assistant coach as our interim head coach. Finally, the spring of my sophomore year began with a new head coach who has carried me and our team through our past and current seasons.

I would not have traded these experiences for the experiences at any other academic institution. Through these hardships, I have learned to become resilient, to rely on my teammates, to self-reflect upon my contribution to our team, and to ultimately give more than I ever thought I could. Off the field, I have met amazing people. I have met incredible professors who have shaped my education in every way, hard-working classmates, peers from other teams whom I admire greatly, and gracious alumni who have been more than willing to give career advice and offer opportunities when possible.

These experiences have been made possible by every person who has ever contributed to Bucknell and our men’s soccer program. Without them, I would not be here. If I am to be completely honest, I would not be here without the generous scholarships and grants that I have been given access to through my recruitment to this amazing program.

With another year of Bison Athletics in full swing, I am honored to share my experience with our loyal alumni, families, and friends. Your support, no matter the amount, is pivotal in ensuring that my teammates and I have all the essential resources that allow us to compete at the highest level.

In conclusion, I am more than proud to be a Bucknellian. Each day spent here is a gift and a privilege that I do not take lightly, and I hope that every student-athlete at this university continues to have positive experiences. I am grateful for everyone and anyone who has ever been a positive force in my four years. On behalf of my coaches, teammates, and Bison Athletics, thank you for your support. My experiences here would not have been possible without you.

'ray Bucknell!

Matthew Owusu

Matt Owusu '24
Majoring in Finance
Bucknell Men's Soccer