Just one year ago, redshirt freshman Brandon Potts was a kicker and punter for Murray State University’s football team. The Henderson, Ky. native appeared in four games as a freshman, but quickly realized he was playing the wrong football.

“I like being a part of the team,” Potts said. “And, I didn’t feel like I was (at Murray State). It was my only major offer out of high school, so I gave it a shot and went with it. But, I never liked it.”

Under the recommendation of junior goalkeeper Ryan Cooke – Potts’ teammate at Henderson County High School (HCHS) – Potts transferred to USI during the spring semester with the intention of walking on in the fall. Until that point, Potts played alongside several current freshmen for the Evansville Soccer Club Under-19 team.

During his senior year at HCHS, Potts was second-team All-State and set the single-season school record with 33 goals. While transitioning back to playing a much more fast-paced game was a challenge initially, USI men’s head coach Mat Santoro said Potts brought a lot of energy and passion when he arrived for practices.

“I think he really missed the sport and how active the practices are,” Santoro said. “He’s able to play all over the field for us and that’s something we need.”

Although Potts is listed as a defender, both of his assists in last Saturday’s game against Okland City University came while he was playing forward, a position he played in high school and a postion many will look at him to play this season because of his strong leg. Potts was also active shooting as well, putting four shots on goal.

USI (1-1) begins Great Lakes Valley Conference play this weekend with two away games against Quincy and Illinois-Springfield on Friday and Sunday.