A Year of Trial and Triumph for Bryant
Published on August 19, 2008 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Eagles News Release
CHARLOTTE, NC - It is just past 10:00pm on Friday, April 25th in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Charlotte Eagles just defeated a quality Richmond Kickers squad 3-0 in what many of the players defined as a statement game. Not only was it the first time the Eagles defeated Richmond in two years since the Kickers entered the USL-2, but it was also a notice to the rest of the league. The Charlotte Eagles were ready to be back on top.Brady Bryant 1st Team Selection
Naturally, the victory was worth a little post-game celebration, and the team went to hang out at a friend's house for some snacks and relaxation. It didn't take long before the Eagles and company started playing one of their favorite games, "signs".
Just as the game is getting started, the front door opens. Brady Bryant walks in the door much to the pleasure of his teammates. It was rare not to see a smile on the South Carolina native, and tonight he didn't disappoint. Without knowing the rules of the game, Bryant confidently stepped in and began playing along. Seeing everyone else in the circle making signs, Brady enjoys the display and begins doing everyone's signs (a strict violation of rules). He was quickly scolded for the violation as his teammates were again amused by the now well-known antics of Brady Bryant.
However, the past year has not always been all fun and games for the former University of Mobile standout.
Brady Bryant was a player full of potential in his career. After all, athleticism was something that ran in the family. Brady's father, Bobby Bryant, was a defensive back for the Minnesota Vikings back in the days of the "Purple People Eaters" as they were so well known in the 60's and 70's. Despite being constantly criticized for being too small to play in the NFL, Bobby Bryant beat the odds and enjoyed a 14 year career with the Vikings.
Known for his speed and ability to make the big play, Bobby would now get to watch his son make the same impact in professional soccer. Brady began his professional career with the Wilmington Hammerheads in 2004, and quickly saw success as he was named Defensive MVP for Wilmington in 2004 and 2005.
After his last season with Wilmington in 2006, Bryant looked to make a change. Leaving the sport he had known so well, Bryant chose to take a step in his father's path with the Columbia Stingers of the National Indoor Football League. Possessing much of the same athleticism and speed of his father, Brady played wide receiver for the Stingers in 2007. The stint however was short-lived and Bryant looked to get back in to the sport he grew to love, soccer.
It was at that time in the early spring of 2008 that Bryant would say was one of the most difficult times of his life. After having trials with both USL-1 sides Portland and Charleston, Bryant was told by the clubs that there was no place for him and was sent packing. "It was definitely one of the hardest things I have ever had to go through", stated Bryant. "To be told you're not good enough, and there is no place for you was very difficult." The signs were not looking very good for Bryant.
As Bryant's options narrowed and his hope continued to fade, he was given one last chance. Brady was put in touch with USL Hall of Fame Coach, Mark Steffens of the Charlotte Eagles. It was then that Bryant was invited to the Charlotte Eagles pre-season camp. The Eagles were looking for defenders. Steffens became impressed with Bryant's athleticism and took a risk. Not long after that, Bryant was signed as a member of the Charlotte Eagles.
In a recent interview courtesy of USLsoccer.com, Steffens remarked about that decision. "We were short in the back during camp, so we gave him a shot," said Steffens. "He just flourished. He rarely loses possession. He is fast. He is very good in the air and he is strong but not overly aggressive to the point that he is giving up free kick opportunities. He is a real unsung hero for us. Normally center backs do not get enough ink, he deserves it."
It did not take long for Bryant to not only show Steffens that the risk was worth it, but he also showed his teammates he would be an integral part of the squad off the field. The team's week in Charleston during preseason sealed that. The Eagles' retreat on the beach of South Carolina brought out Bryant's character in many ways, and he quickly became part of a close-knit family. "There was one time on the beach that week when we were all gathering together, and we turn around to see Brady just dancing on his own by the beach house," recalled Eagles defender Gregg Schroeder. "He has been such an awesome addition to this team. We knew pretty quickly that he was going to fit in just fine in Charlotte."
Now a 1st Team All-League selection and finalist for Defender of the Year, Brady Bryant still has plenty of reasons to dance, but he'll quickly tell you it is not just because of his success on the field.
Not only does Bryant have the support of his parents and brother, Blaze who make the trip up from Columbia, South Carolina to watch every game, but he's had an entire team of brothers with him every step of the way. "I have never been a part of a team like this before," states Bryant. "We have a special family-like bond that I am so thankful to be a part of. It is a great feeling to have a bunch of guys there to lift you up and encourage you during those difficult times. This team has impacted me in so many ways."
As the Eagles prepare for their 7th Championship Final on Saturday in Cleveland, there is also a good chance the ole game of "signs" could break out during the team's down time. Brady Bryant knows the rules now, but don't be surprised if he keeps ignoring them. After all, ignoring those signs has worked out pretty well for Brady Bryant in 2008.
United Soccer League Championship Stories from August 19, 2008
- League Names Three Palace Players To All-League Teams - Crystal Palace Baltimore
- A Year of Trial and Triumph for Bryant - Charlotte Eagles
- Palace Bow Out In Semi-Final Thriller At Charlotte - Crystal Palace Baltimore
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
