Bolts Alumni Spotlight - Josh Bauer

Making it to the professional level requires a certain combination of discipline, self-belief, as well as the willingness to learn and improve. Look no further than Josh Bauer. 

Josh has recently signed with Nashville SC for the 2022 season. In 2021, he was drafted by Atlanta United, where he made 27 appearances for the second team in his first season on an MLS roster.

Before making the jump to the professional level, Josh enjoyed one of the decorated careers in recent college soccer history in the New England region. In three years at UNH, he made 60 appearances, while scoring 10 goals and 10 assists as a defender. He was 2x American East Defender of the Year in 2018 & 2019, and a First Team NCAA DI All-American in 2019. 

In 2018, Josh played for @bostonboltsusl2, and was an extremely consistent performer in his time with the club. 

In 2020, he signed his first professional contract with Birmingham Legion FC, playing alongside Bolts Academy Alum Marcos Ugarte, and under the command of Bolts legend Jay Heaps. 

Check out this post for Josh’s insight into what it takes to be a pro, how to overcome challenges, the importance of the mental side of the game. 

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What was your favorite part about being a member of the Boston Bolts?
For me, the best part about playing for the Bolts was that it was an opportunity to play high-level, competitive soccer in the New England area. Being around great players and coaches so close to home is a luxury that I think often gets overlooked.

What piece of advice would you give young bolts players who dream of pursuing college and professional careers?
First, I would say be sure to take advantage of the resources you have in the Bolts organization. The coaches and staff are there to help you reach those goals and become the best player you can be. Secondly, always remain humble. There is always something you can improve on and humility will take you a long way at any level.

What would you consider the most important attribute for professional soccer players?
A lot of people like to analyze the physical part of the game. In my opinion, the most important aspect is the mental side of the game. That includes your mentality and approach, confidence in your ability, and overall mental well being while competing. If you can manage that, your abilities on the field will come more naturally.

How can young players handle adversity and how have you approached challenges throughout your playing career?
The best way to handle adversity is to become adaptable and open minded. Nothing is ever going to be perfect. Things are going to happen that are out of your control. The sooner you can start thinking about a solution, rather than focusing on the problem, the sooner you will be able to overcome that adversity. One thing I try to do when faced with challenges is to change my perspective and turn adversity into opportunity.

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