SuperDraft pick Sejdic finds himself in similar situation as Krolicki last year
It isn’t always easy to join a group of professional soccer players out of college. There’s always going to be a transition period between both levels, a gap that can be difficult to close for certain players.
But this year’s SuperDraft pick, Amar Sejdic, seems to be taking it in stride, now 10 days into his first ever professional training camp.
“The challenge is earning everyone’s respect,” explained Sejdic. “I want them to know that I can play and that they can trust me on the ball. I think for any player going into a new club, that’s important, and it’s something I’ve tried putting an emphasis on.”
Sejdic was warmly welcomed by his teammates when he joined them at the airport on departure day, although he was already quite familiar with one person in particular. Ken Krolicki, who signed for the Impact a little less than a year ago, used to play with Amar in the Olympic Development program, and also against him at the collegiate level.
Just like Amar, Ken was picked at the SuperDraft just a year prior, joining the team at training camp. He ended up inking a contract before the start of the 2018 season.
“For me, knowing what Ken did last year coming in as a rookie is important,” added Sejdic. “My mindset isn’t necessarily to achieve what Ken did, but to perform at my best level and play for the guy next to me.”
“I’ve known Amar for a long time,” said Ken Krolicki. “He’s a very good player and I’m excited to play with him again. We talked and he knows what he needs to do to. I think he can take the step to the next level, and he thinks so too, so I don’t think I need to tell him much to motivate him.”
Just last year, wearing the captain’s armband, Amar helped Maryland win its fourth NCAA title, scoring the lone goal in the final and being named the College Cup Most Valuable Player. His serious demeanor and maturity are evident, even among a group of professionals. It’s allowed him to make an easy off-field transition.
“This is a career, a job, for those here,” continued Sejdic. “Players are here to provide for their families and for themselves, so the commitment is there every day. Everyone pushes each other to get stronger, better and fitter, and competition is always high. You’re among a group of guys that all love the game. They’ve been playing from a young age because of the fact that they love the game, and that’s how they’ve reached this level. Recognizing that and seeing the difference is nice.”
