Name: Destiny Carmen Pagan
Team: G01/02 Black
Number of Years at Copa: 2
HS: Woodbridge High School
HS Honors: All Area, Honor Roll, High Honor Roll
Coaches at Copa: Coach Steve, Coach Yazo
College Attending: CUNY College of Staten Island
Conference: East Coast Conference
Anticipated Major: Mathematics
Quote about a specific coach: Coming from always playing forward due to my speed, Coach Steve Lengen, with his experience and knowledge, taught me how to use that speed in a different way. Placing me in the outside back positions he helped me see the field from a defensive perspective and helped me see the game through a different lens. Transitioning from Coach Steve’s defensive expertise to Coach Jonathan Yazo who is a savant of offensive strategies has developed me into the versatile player that I am today. Their passion for the game has taught me to love the game and leave it all out on the field.
What are your most memorable moments or experiences at FC Copa Academy?
My most memorable moment was when I received the call from Billy Englishby telling me that I had earned my place on the Black team. Not only was it an honor but a great feeling of accomplishment knowing my hard work was paying off.
How did FC Copa Academy help you become the player you are today?
FC Copa Academy as a whole has shown me that you need to go above and beyond and to always push yourself. They helped me open my mind and problem solve in tough situations on and off the field.
How did FC Copa Academy help you get into the college program you will be attending?
During my college search I had no idea of where I wanted to go, Lori Berman helped me to narrow down my list and guide me in the right direction of where I should be looking and what I should be looking for in a college both academically and athletically. After narrowing my list Lori, Roberto, Yazo and Steve all helped in showing me my potential as a player, helped by talking to coach, and giving me great coach/ college suggestions that lead me to Coach Jackie Bruno and the College of Staten Island.
Share your thoughts and experiences on the collegiate recruitment process with FC Copa Academy.
Without FC Copa Academy the recruitment process would have been a lot more difficult. They were always available and answered whatever questions I had. They constantly told me the truth and gave me all the tools I needed in order to be successful in the recruitment process.
What advice would you give to future FC Copa Academy athletes going through the collegiate recruitment process? The advice I would give is to always ask questions, no matter what. It’s better to be confused and say something about it rather than being confused and never knowing how to change that confusion. No matter what any coach within FC Copa Academy will answer any and every questions you have. Be open minded and be ready to work.