Build soccer in Buffalo: Buy 2015 NPSL season tickets today
In our run-up to the 2015 NPSL season, FCBuffalo.org is learning plenty about the personalities of our new players. Today we get to know a pair of players coming off their freshman seasons in college, with Pittsburgh defender Matt Bischoff and St. Bonaventure attacker Joshuah Beshaw.
First up: Matt Bischoff
How would you describe yourself as a player, and what players in the world at your position do you admire?
I see myself as an outside back who likes the get forward and create chances. I like keeping possession with a purpose and letting the ball do the work. I can play on either side, and did so this past school season. I am versatile, and can play anywhere needed on the field. I admire players like Jordi Alba from FC Barcelona and David Alaba from Bayern Munchen because of their versatility, pace, and transition play from defending to attacking.
What do you like to do away from soccer?
I really enjoy working out and keeping fit. This past summer I made a small CrossFit gym in my garage with my best friend and we plan to do the same this summer. I also enjoy really enjoy traveling. In the summer of 2013, my family did a tour of Europe and saw England, France, Germany, and Italy.
What’s your most memorable soccer experience?
My senior year season at Fairport High School. That year, we went 19-1-2, were the Division I League Champions, the Section V Champions, the West Regional Champions, and the NYS Finalists. We scored the most goals in school history with 68, and conceded the fewest goals in school history with 7. It was the most successful season in school history and it was amazing being a part of it.
What’s your most memorable non-soccer experience?
When my family went to Europe. We were able to see London, Paris, Versailles, Normandy, Heidelberg, Munich, Berchtesgaden, Garmisch, Salzburg, and Venice. I was able to experience the different cultures and see some of the most famous places in Europe. I really enjoyed the role soccer played over there. Most of the advertisements had soccer players or teams, and soccer stores were all over the place. Everyone was wearing jerseys and would comment about teams I would wear. Europe was an amazing experience, and I hope to go back sometime soon.
What’s something fans should know about you?
I currently play for the University of Pittsburgh in the ACC. I played in every game and started a few before I got hurt towards the end of the season. I was forced to miss the last 6 games because of it. I completed my first 90 minutes this season against NCAA Division 1 National Champions, University of Virginia. At Pitt I played outside back, winger, and a little bit of center mid.
Next up: Josh Beshaw
How would you describe yourself as a player, and what players in the world at your position do you admire?
I am the type of player that likes to utilize pace. Theo Walcott is a player I admire since his pace is brilliant and can score goals out of nothing.
What do you like to do away from soccer?
I am an avid fisherman. Over breaks if I am not on the soccer pitch, I’ll most likely be fishing.
What’s your most memorable soccer experience?
Sectional Finals during my junior year of high school. Whole school came to support and the environment was absolutely unreal. Even though we lost in PKs it was truly an unforgettable moment.
What’s your most memorable non-soccer experience?
Most memorable non soccer moment would have to be my track season during my junior year. Broke a section record for the 4x100m relay with my team and went to states and nationals for the relay. I’ll never forget that.
What’s something fans should know about you?
I love being outdoors. There is something about nature and fresh air that relaxes me.
