Cacey Clark will soon be making a big move from the small, quiet town of Denair to another small, quiet town — Crete, Neb. Clark, a three-year starter on Denair High’s soccer team, recently received a full ride scholarship from Doane College, fulfilling a dream eight years in the making.

“Eight years ago it hit me, I thought it would be cool to play soccer in college,” Clark said. “It’s been one of my dreams to get a scholarship to play soccer. It’s still hitting me right now.”

In total, Clark has spent 12 years of his life on the soccer field, 10 of which as a goalie. As a sophomore Clark joined the Coyote squad, helping them rack up the best overall record in a three year period than any other soccer squad in Denair history. Coyote head coach Daniel Romero attributes his team’s success to the attitude, skill and work ethic of Clark.

“I knew I could put him back in the goal. He knew what he was doing and I didn’t have to worry about him,” Romero said. “He’s the kind of kid that can make the team relax but he also keeps the team focused. He was a captain two years in a row and there’s a reason for that.”

“Being the goalie, it’s a leadership position,” Clark said. “Everything is on you, if you don’t let any goals go by you win.”

Clark’s defensive exploits and his proactive approach to getting recognized, which included making his own recruiting reel, earned him offers from a number of different schools from California to Wisconsin. In the end all it took was a trip to Doane College’s campus for Clark to realize Nebraska was the right fit.

“I felt like I could be a big part of their team and that they really wanted me to be there,” he said. “I’m looking forward to making an impact on the team and helping them win a national championship.”

“I can see him starting the first year,” Romero said.

Although Clark is excited to take his skills as a goalie to Doane he insists he will always remember his time in Denair.

“I’m going to miss the people and all the good times I had on the field and in class,” he said.