Jesse Foreman has a lot more goals to score, they just might not occur on American soil.
The Owen junior confirmed Tuesday that he withdrawn from his classes so he can further pursue a professional soccer career overseas.
Foreman leaves for Hungary on Jan. 9.
Foreman tried out for various teams in the Hungary NB (Nemzeti Bajnokság) 1 league during a trial period from Oct. 21 to Nov. 8 and the midfielder was offered two pro deals, according to his father, Joseph.
Since Foreman’s parents do not live in Hungary, he will not officially be eligible to become a full-blown pro until his 18th birthday (on March 12). Until then, Foreman will attend a soccer academy sponsored by the team MTK Budapest which owns his rights.
In light of that, Foreman will retain his amateur status in case the potential international deal does not work out. That’s important because it would allow Foreman to play college soccer in the United States if he so desires.
“Of course, I’m a little nervous, but I’m ready to start the next chapter,” Foreman said.
“It’s a new country with new people. I’m learning Hungarian (over CD) as we speak. It’s a hard language.”
Foreman led the Western Highlands Conference champion Warhorses (11-8-0) with 23 goals and was an all-conference selection this fall.
He trains in the offseason with the Highland Football Club.
The NCHSAA 2-A playoffs began Oct. 29 and Owen lost 2-1 to Forest Hills in a first-round game without Foreman on the field.
Still, he was an All-WHC selection for the third consecutive year.
“Owen’s soccer program is very honored to have someone like Jesse represent us,” Warhorses coach David Fiest said.
“It’s going to be tough to replace a player of his caliber and that’s something that we’re dealing with at the moment. Jesse is one of the very few players in this area who can put a game on his shoulders. We definitely wish him well and hope he continues to strive for greater things. Hopefully he will continue to grow.”
Foreman said his last full day as a student at Owen occurred on Nov. 25 and that his classmates have reacted positively.
“Everyone is pretty excited for me and has been very encouraging,” Foreman said.
“And we did a lot of good, technical drills and exercises with HFC that were based on the European-style of play. When I got over there (to Hungary), it really wasn’t anything new to me.”
Joseph Foreman has given his son a full blessing to go forward.
“Jesse was incredibly-respected by the coaches who saw him play (in Hungary) and their goal is to develop him to the best of their ability,” Joseph Foreman said.
“It’s super-remarkable for him.”
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