Spotlight Player of the Year: Yutaro Tsukada
Spotlight player of the year is Yutaro Tsukada. Yutaro has been an influential component to the Falcons' success these last two seasons, posting some impressive stats
including scoring 5 game winning goals this past season. Yutaro leaves the Falcons holding 6 school records - most goals in a season (20), most goals in 2 seasons (26), most hat tricks (4), fastest goal in school history (32 seconds), most free kicks scored (4), and he is the all-time statistical leader with 63 points. His work on the field was rewarded with a spot in the United Soccer Coaches 1st Team All-American team, making Yutaro one of four DSC Men’s Soccer players to be awarded such an honor.
Coach Travis, who played an influential role in recruiting Yutaro to Daytona State College, was quoted saying “It was a moment of right place right time. Coach Bart and I were sat in the office one day talking about recruiting and how we needed an impact player who would score goals. I went into my office and started scrolling through Facebook and that was where I saw Yutaro for the first time. It was only at the end of the video when I realized that one of Coach Bart's old players from Darton College had posted it. In that moment, I ran to Bart's office and said, ‘Bart, you have to see this.’ That is when Coach reached out to his ex-player to enquire about Yutaro.”
Coach Travis ended our conversation with “from there, every conversation with Yutaro was like talking to a professional. I have never met a more respectful and kinder player. From our conversations with Yutaro, Coach and I knew he was the right fit for us. Not only were we looking for a good player, but we also wanted a good person. That was what we got and more. Yutaro represents what Daytona is all about.”
“Yutaro had an outstanding run at Daytona State. His accolades on the field and in the classroom are very hard to achieve at this level. Yutaro truly sets an amazing standard for future Falcons to strive for.
An example of his character, after our biggest win of the season 2-0 over Eastern, FL at Eastern to clinch the Region (he had a goal and assist). Once we arrived back to campus, while unloading the bus, our bag of balls came loose in the storage compartment. Yutaro was crawling on his hands and knees to collect balls. Coach Bart was speechless. Yutaro is a team first guy, a program first guy and that’s why he’s so amazing.”
Yuturo is graduating from Daytona State College with a 3.75 GPA. He is moving on to play at West Virginia University where he will be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Please enjoy this interview that we had with our own.
Where are you from?
I'm from Tokyo, Japan.
What club did you play for growing up?
I used to play for FC. Tokyo U-15. After that I entered Seibo high school.
Who is your favorite player?
Cristiano Ronaldo is my favorite player and idol since I was small.
Why did you choose Daytona State?
One of the most important things when I choose a team is whether the team tries to keep possession of the ball. DSC was exactly what I wanted. Facilities and location are also one of the reasons why I chose DSC.
Favorite American Food?
It's a fast-food restaurant, but Chipotle is my favorite food here. Chipotle on the way back from an away game is one of the best moments.
Why did you choose to play at West Virginia?
West Virginia is a top level D1 program and the best option going forward for my academic and soccer career at this point. They also try to keep possessed the ball. I was able to easily imagine that I would bring many goals in that soccer style.
Favorite sport other than soccer?
I like American football because of my father's influence. I haven't been to an NFL game yet, so I'd like to watch a game someday.
What do you like most about America?
There’s no other country quite like America when it comes to cultural diversity. Every nation, race and color are represented in America. I have been feeling the diversity of people is what makes this country strong since I got here.
Greatest memory at Daytona State?
All memories at DSC were special to me. If I was choose one, it would be the time we went to the national tournament in Texas. I remember sitting and crying on the edge of the field after the game ended. Playing for the badge on my chest as a player of the Falcons would be my greatest memory.
What will you miss about Daytona Soccer?
I miss my teammate. All the awards I personally won wouldn't have been accomplished without their support and help. They helped me both on and off the pitch. I’m so proud of them and want to thank them. The time I spent with them will always have a special place in my heart. I was so lucky to play with them as a teammate. I will never forget them. Thank you for everything.
