By CHUCK PORTER

Marc Nicolini is wrapping up his senior year for the Broken Arrow boys soccer team, but that might just be the beginning of his career on the pitch.

“I am going to Uruguay and try and pursue my dream of playing professional soccer there,” said Nicolini.

“My family is from Uruguay and soccer is huge there,” said Nicolini, a defender on the Tiger soccer team. “I get my love and passion for soccer from Uruguay. I have family down there I plan to stay with while I go on trials for professional clubs. I love the competition and passion they have for the sport.”

Since he’s been old enough to run, soccer has been a huge part of his life. Nicolini has been lacing up his cleats for the last 15 years. 

Nicolini’s favorite memory on the pitch was helping Broken Arrow to a first-place finish at the Edmond-Deer Creek tournament to start his junior year. This season, Nicolini has helped lead the Tigers to the top spot in district play, and heading into the postseason Broken Arrow is in great position to make a run to a 6A state championship.

An elite tackler and passer in the backfield, Nicolini is a key part of the Tigers’ efforts to tamp down opposing attacks. Nicolini said his one-on-one defending is a major strength of his game. And as a team, the Tigers have shut out five opponents so far this season. 

With just a few games left in his high school career, though, Nicolini wants to make the most of the time with his teammates. “I’m going to miss the brotherhood we had,” he said. 

While pro soccer is his dream, Nicolini will also pursue further education after graduation, including going to Tulsa Community College. But soccer will always be in Nicolini’s blood!