It’s an exciting time for Blake Wise, the Dallas Texans standout who is coming into his prime both physically and mentally.

Wise is close to choosing his college destination – he’s already made visits to North Carolina Greensboro(m), Dayton, George Mason and has additional invitations to drop by South Carolina, San Diego State and Oregon State.

He’s a sought after prospect, which is always validating for a young player, but more encouraging is the way he feels.

After an ACL injury shelved him for much of last year he is back to feeling healthy and has a new perspective thanks to a special summer experience.

“As far as my injury, I don’t feel any pain,” Blake said. “I think people that injure their ACL – they’re never really going to feel the way they used to, but I feel good.”

A compactly strong player who can hold his own anywhere on the field, Blake is an emotional competitor – in a positive sense. He plays with passion, something that was on clear display during his tour with the elite Discover Europe team this summer. The group of American All-stars traveled through Austria, Germany and Belgium while playing against some of the best clubs in the world.

It was a period that left a lasting impression with Wise, who performed exceptionally well and showed off his versatility alongside Kelyn Rowe, Joseph Sofia, Patrick Matchett, Ryan Metts, and Harrison Petts.

“Let me tell you, that was an eye opener,” Wise said. “Everyone over there was gifted and was an amazing player. It made me realize that if I ever want to become a professional soccer player I am going to have to work harder than ever before. I have to do whatever it takes.”
 
Wise was both a bundle of potential and realized ability while playing in Europe. He’s a superb athlete who strikes the ball with authority and can adapt to a physical game.

Unfortunately for Wise, his Texans team hasn’t gotten off to the best of starts, despite teaming with stars like fellow Discover Europe player Zachery Barnes. The Texans have started just 2-3-3 in the U18 Development Academy, struggling to finish at goal and adjusting to a coaching change.

Still, whatever is happening around him, Wise has proven that his ambition and love for the game is unrelenting.

“Soccer is something that I love and have so much passion for,” Blake said. “It is my life and I would never change that. It has always been my dream to become a good player that people know about, but these days ‘good’ isn’t good enough. In order to be successful you have to be a great (gifted) player. I have to work for it.”