Cardinal Close Up - Jared Urueta

Contact: Anna Fox, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, amfox@noctrl.edu

Oct. 2, 2024 - After watching his dad play soccer growing up, Jared Urueta of the North Central College men's soccer team became interested in the sport at just three years old.

Urueta during his youth soccer days.

“Soccer caught my attention because my dad would take me to his soccer games, and week after week, soccer caught my attention. As a result, he influenced me to play, and I never looked back,” said Urueta.

Growing up, Urueta also had an interest in volleyball. In high school, Urueta played volleyball for all four years but ultimately decided to focus on soccer in college.

Urueta played freshman and sophomore seasons at Triton College. When asked why he transferred to North Central, he said, “I really liked that North Central was located in a very safe and beautiful town. The school also has a great teacher-to-student ratio that makes it easy to access the professors and have that one-on-one conversation if needed.”

Urueta’s family has had a huge influence on his life. His mom has pushed him and supported him through everything he has done. “My mom has definitely been the person who has influenced me the most. There were a lot of times when I wanted to quit certain things, but she knew what my passions were and did not allow me to lose motivation to accomplish my goals,” said Urueta.

A family photo of the Urueta's.

When Urueta isn’t playing soccer, he likes to watch live sporting events on TV and YouTube videos. Additionally, Urueta likes to spend time off the field with his teammates. While members of the soccer team come from all around the world, the Cardinal teammates have a tight bond.

Urueta and his Cardinal teammates before a game this season.

“At the beginning of each season, every newcomer signs in front of the rest of the team as a way for all the returners to welcome them to the team and help them feel comfortable. From there, the unity and brotherhood builds and creates a team relationship where everyone is there for each other,” said Urueta.

Urueta will graduate from North Central in May of 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management. With endless opportunities available, Urueta said, “I am in the process of looking for a job that best fits me and one that will hopefully allow me to travel.”

Urueta and his Cardinal teammates are back in action Wednesday, Oct. 11, against Augustana College. Game time is 7 p.m. at Thorson-Lucken Field in Rock Island, Ill.

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