Linne signs with SSU

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Valley senior Aaron Linne wasn’t expecting to play soccer at the collegiate level but once he was given the opportunity, his college decision became clear.

Linne chose to play soccer at Shawnee State University over Kent State and Wilmington.

“I wasn’t really looking to play sports. I was more interested in what the different colleges offered,” Linne said.

After speaking with Bryce Romanello, who also signed with SSU, helped convince Linne to join the Bears.

“You don’t always get the opportunity to continue playing sports and this was a great opportunity for me,” Linne said. “Bryce helped convince me to come and play with him. I thought it would be a great opportunity to play again.

“That played a big part of my decision because having someone I know going with me helps a lot. It played a big factor in my decision.”

Indians head coach Jeremy Duncan knows Shawnee is getting a high-character person.

“Aaron is a fine young man,” Duncan said. “He always showed me the upmost respect as coach. He always put the team first. He’s a tremendous athlete and a really good kid.”

Now that he made his decision, Linne is already working on his skill set before he reaches campus.

“I’m just thinking of working on my ability and trying to get better at what I do,” Linne said. “I’m also focused on trying to do better in school than I have during high school.”

While he’s probably going to be going into college undecided, Linne is interested in the medical field and dentistry in particular.

Linne was also undecided about soccer to begin his high-school tenure as he didn’t try out until his sophomore year. Once Linne joined the soccer team, he spent the majority of his sophomore campaign working on his goal-scoring ability but above all else, he prepared himself to help the Indians anyway possible.

After his sophomore season, Linne’s devotion was tested when Duncan asked him to give up his offensive game and help the team by switching to defense to begin his junior campaign. Linne excelled in the position change, being named SOC I defense Player of the Year as a senior.

“He saved our season both years,” Duncan said. “He worked hard, never missed a game and was recognized by the coaches in our conference as the best defensive player.”

Once he arrives on SSU’s campus, Duncan believes Linne will continue to play defense.

“They can use him for whatever they want. He’s such a great athlete, he can do anything but I’d be surprised if he doesn’t play defense,” Duncan said.

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Photo submitted Front row: Betsy Linne (mother), Aaron, Jeff Linne (father) Back row: Jeremy Duncan (high school coach), Mark Trapp (SSU), Ron Goodson (SSU), Darren Crabtree (Valley athletic director).
http://portsmouth-dailytimes.aimmedianetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/28/2016/02/web1_IMG_5397.jpgPhoto submitted Front row: Betsy Linne (mother), Aaron, Jeff Linne (father) Back row: Jeremy Duncan (high school coach), Mark Trapp (SSU), Ron Goodson (SSU), Darren Crabtree (Valley athletic director).

By Chris Slone

[email protected]

Reach Chris Slone at 740-353-3101, ext 1930, or on Twitter @crslone.

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