SOJO

Mark Handler studied at Pace Academy in Atlanta, GA which eventually led him to Wake Forest University, NC. The path was setup for what many thought was a career in law or teaching perhaps, but that's now how the story goes. 
One doesn't usualy need to figure out who to talk with for catching planes on aircraft carriers, but that's exactly what Mark was contemplating while working in Texas as it pertained to his new job functions. Deep in the corporate world he still hadn't found the connection to his work that he had wanted. That's when the reflection on true joy and soccer helped him get back to the sport he loved in a MAJOR way, well major league soccer that is. Listen to our conversation to see how youth soccer impacted his future and how Mark also helps with sustainability within the sports world. 

Courtney Brown prepped by playing La Roca Club soccer in Utah. She was recruiting to play collegiately at Utah at a young age and never waivered in that decision. From local AYSO where she had to play on both teams to help even the scores to traveling the country with some of her best friends. Her love for the game only grew as the level of play did as well. 
She is an example of dedication to her craft and staying the course. Her destination wasn't set in her youth but naturally occured as she continued on her journey. She is an extremly positive person and has a uplifitng look at everything she experienced in her path. 
Follow Courtney on Instagram: courtney_brown16

Vaughn Van Dame prepped at La Cueva High School (Albuquerque, NM) before completely dropping out of school without graduating. He ended up getting his GED and took a chance on JUCO. That ended up being one of the biggest decisions for him as JUCO has never left him since. From New Mexico to Kansas, Arizona, South Dakota, Mexico, Texas and now Iowa. He has put in the miles and his journey reflects that. 
He has had the opportunity to rewrite his own narrative and give back to the community that helped save where his life may have gone. He works everyday to be the coach he never had and influence those around him to continue their own journeys to find success on and off the field. 
Follow Vaughn on Instagram @vaughnvandame

Ashton Sparrow prepped at Fremont High School (Plain City, UT) while running cross country and track there. He then attended Weber State University and earned his degree in Physical Education to start his teaching career. He currently is the male gym teacher at TH Bell Junior High School and helps coach track at the junior high and football at Bonneville High School. Avid ultimate frisbee player and dad, he has a desire to give to coaching and fill the void he felt was there when he competed.

Bria Griffin prepped in Atlanta, GA before advancing her education at Howard and Georgetown Universities. "Atlanta Raised, DC Educated," Bria is the Director of Recruiting Operations at Colorado State University. Originally starting her journey as a ball kid for the Atlanta Dream, she has now become an integral part of the collegiate sports scene. Although accomplished, Bria believes her journey is really just beginning.
Follow Bria on Twitter @TheSportyBee.

Once a young Cali kid Ladale Jackson moved to Nevada where he prepped at Silverado High School (Las Vegas, NV). Developing his talents and exploring different sports he was able to find joy and success on the track and field. He committed to Utah...or did he? I guess timing is everything and he ended up at Utah State University (Logan, UT) to play football. 
Through it all he tackles his obstacles and decides to find ways to learn and grow from them. He proves that the lessons learned from sports can help amongst challenges off the field. 
 

Lauren was an avid gymnast devoting 40 hours a week at her craft. Unfortunately, life came at her gymnastics career leaving her standing but without the sport she loved. 
Currently working as the Events Coordinator for the Ken Garff Red Zone at Rice-Eccless she still found her way to Utah but has made a different impact all her own. 
Follow Lauren on Instagram @lauren_busbee11

Garrett prepped at Santa Margarita Catholic High School (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA) before joining the collegiate ranks at the University of Utah (Salt Lake, UT) as a student assitant for the men's basketball program. Currently working as a Color commentator for KSL. 
From sunny California to the snow capped mountains of Utah. His journey shows you the cool opportunies that keep coming his way via sport. 
Follow Garrett on Instagram @Garrett_Thompson.30

Tawnie prepped at Fremont High School (Plain City, UT) before joining the collegiate ranks at Weber State University (Ogden, UT) . Current Big Sky Conference 100m Record Holder, Olympic qualifier, collegiate coach and business owner. 
From little country girl to jumping over life's hurdles, her journey has plenty to take notes on. 
Follow Tawnie on Instagram @go_.the._distance
 

Welcome to The SOJO Show. This episode is a high level overview of what to expect from the following episodes and purpose of the show. Please follow us on our social media pages as we build a special community. Check out the website for merch and more information. Best of luck to you on your journey!
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