Interview #7- Clay Dimick

Bio

Clay Dimick is an American Soccer player currently signed to the Charlotte Independence of the USL Championship. Dimick, a versatile defender, has made quite a name for himself while playing college soccer at Belmont. Dimick signed his first professional contract with Charlotte not too long ago, and has already made a fantastic impression there. He came with experience in the USL League 2 and of course, college soccer.

The Clay Dimick Interview

1. What was your youth career like?
My youth career was in Atlanta Georgia. A lot of quality players come out of the area, so growing up there definitely was a blessing. The teams I played on were also traveling to other states for region games, or tournaments and the level was always the highest level for my age group.

2. You had a successful collegiate career at Belmont, what was playing college ball like?
Playing at Belmont abbey definitely shaped me into the person and player I am today. Thankfully I played under the best coach I’ve had in my career. I learned a lot tactically and technically from him. College ball is a family, teammates become brothers and some of those memories are the best part of my career thus far.

3. Tips for players looking to get on the scoresheet? 
Tips i’d give players to get on the scoresheet is get reps and reps and reps in at training. Get in front of goal and never hesitate to take your chance. You want to score, then shoot when an opportunity comes.

4. What was your time in the USL League 2 like? What did it teach you?
I played for three teams in the USL2 throughout college. I always enjoyed going away to a team in the summer and playing against some of the best collegiate quality. It was definitely a step up from my college so it taught me a lot as a player. Going against better/more athletic players helped get me to the next level for sure. It’s never bad to live in a new city for a few months either

5. How did you feel after signing for the Charlotte Independence?
Signing my first pro contract with Charlotte was a dream come true. After I signed I was just ready to get to work and start helping the team anyway I could.

"I was just ready to get to work and start helping the team anyway I could."

6. Craziest story from your career so far?
Craziest story from my career so far would probably be signing with Charlotte. Going to college around here, and having family in the area I always wanted to play for the independence and never imagined it would work out.

7. Favorite team and player growing up?
My favorite team is Chelsea and my favorite player growing up was Frank Lampard.

8. Who wins the Premier League this season?
I would say Liverpool or Manchester city will win the league this year.

9. What are your goals for the future?
My goals for the future are to have the longest professional career possible, and play at the highest level achievable.

10. Biggest role model?
My biggest role model is my former college coach, John Keating. He has taught me a lot on the field but more importantly has had the biggest impact on my life as a whole.

11. Biggest tip for players looking to become pro?
My biggest tip for players trying to reach the professional level would be, work hard and never ever ever give up. Always find ways to improve, to train, and to get fitter.

12. Favorite city you’ve played in?
My favorite City I’ve played in so far would be Atlanta since that’s where I grew up. 

13. Any hobbies outside of soccer, is so what?
I love to fly fish, mountain bike, hike, wakeboard, or anything outdoors really. 

14. Would you rather win the World Cup or Champions League?
I would rather win the World Cup, hands down the biggest stage in the world. 

15. Favorite food?
I love food in general, but if I had to narrow it down, I would go with sushi. 

16. What do you believe separates a pro from an amateur?
I think what separates a pro from an amateur is the level and intensity of training both on their own and in a team environment. 

17. Any last words for the readers?
Do something everyday that will get you closer to your dreams.

Thanks so much Clay, great player and great person! We wish you the best of luck in your future, and thanks again! You were very easy to work with, we appreciate that!

Written by Chris Dailey