For many student athletes, balancing sports and academics can come as a challenge — whether it's studying for an exam or prepping for an upcoming game, time management is essential to every athlete's success.
Philadelphia Union Homegrown defender Mark McKenzie started his journey at YSC Academy and went on to earn 26 starts in just two years with the U-18 squad. He also made eight appearances over the course of the 2016-2017 seasons as an amateur for the Union's USL affiliate, Bethlehem Steel FC.
After graduating from YSC Academy, McKenzie continued the game he loves at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. While there, the defender attended early morning training sessions, spent time in the classroom and continued to develop as an individual both on and off the pitch. Luckily, the transition from high school to college was effortless, thanks to YSC Academy.
"YSC helped me with adjusting to college life. I had to do a lot of self-management, figure out a time to get my studies in and complete my assignments, whether it was writing papers or prepping for exams," McKenzie said.
As a freshman, the defender helped lead WFU to a 19-2-2 record — appearing in 16 matches and logging 685 minutes. McKenzie then concluded his first semester at Wake Forest after the Union signed him to a professional contract on Jan. 18, 2018.
Since signing with the First Team, McKenzie has appeared in eight matches and accumulated 639 minutes. In his rookie campaign, the 19-year-old has faced several challenges and tough decisions as a professional athlete. One of those decisions involved continuing his educational pursuits.
Despite the demanding schedule involved with Major League Soccer, McKenzie has carved out time to focus on earning his degree in Sports Management from Southern New Hampshire University — a proud partner of the Philadelphia Union. Of course, though, it doesn't come without struggles.
"Doing my school work on the road is difficult being that once you’re done playing, you just want to rest, sleep and watch Netflix or hangout with friends," McKenzie said. "But, at the same time, I know I have another mission and that’s to get my education.”
With self-discipline and time management, McKenzie hopes to complete his mission of earning his Bachelor's in the next two-to-three years. The good the news is he's not alone in the process.
Fellow teammates Auston Trusty and Fabian Herbers are also continuing their education with SNHU. The university has created a close bond amongst the teammates and they lean on one another for guidance and support throughout the program.
"Going out and asking them questions on how to navigate the new program is important to me and they’ve been extremely helpful throughout the process," McKenzie said.
Since beginning his journey with SNHU, McKenzie has learned to navigate the ropes and hold himself accountable. It can be tempting at times to just go home and relax after a hard training session or intense match, but knowing there's a positive light at the end of the tunnel keeps the defender going.
"You have got to be responsible and accountable for yourself. Nobody is really there to shepherd you through it, so you got to figure it out as you go. There are a lot of resources, so you have to learn to use them," McKenzie said.
No matter how busy life can be, McKenzie keeps his eye on the prize — a diploma from Southern New Hampshire University.
