Joe Suchecki is a two sport-athlete… but not your typical two-sport athlete.
The gifted freshman on Maryland’s talent-laden men’s soccer roster is proficient in a sport that requires a different kind of kicking, karate.
“I got my black belt when I was 14,” Suchecki said. “I’ve actually had to go through promotion twice in two different karate systems, so I’ve been a brown belt twice, but that was my first black belt.”
Up until the age of eight, Suchecki participated in soccer and gymnastics. As he blossomed into a soccer star, he searched for an activity with more flexibility and eventually found a home in an art that traces its origins back to the 1300s.
“Karate was a perfect complement for soccer.” Suchecki said. “The athletic aspects translate to soccer and karate is super disciplined and you get pushed every session to become better.”
As he rose to black belt in the Seido Karate system, the New York City native became a soccer standout, starring for NYCFC’s youth set up before committing to Maryland. Suchecki’s soccer exploits were even frequently announced before his karate classes.
Now in College Park preparing for his first season, Suchecki likens the tight-knit atmosphere of his karate teammates to the culture he feels within his new squad.
“I am so excited. Everyone is really nice and open. You can tell there’s real chemistry among the guys. I cannot wait to get out there on the field with them.”
While Suchecki won’t take karate classes in college, the stretches and drills he learned in the sport will help him stay fit during the season. Despite being away from his karate community, the relationships he built within it will keep him on and kicking through any challenge he faces.
“The support from them is unbelievable. They are great people who are so humble and hardworking. Karate has become a big part of my life and the people there have made a huge impact on me.” P
