Following his sophomore year at LFHS, Owen Sloan faced a difficult reality: In order to pursue his full athletic potential, he decided he would have to sacrifice his typical high school experience. 

 Sloan made the transition to online schooling, after joining the Chicago Fire soccer team, in pursuit of better athletic opportunities. His day begins with a one-hour drive to the stadium, where he prioritizes soccer with a few hours of schoolwork in between.

With a routine so demanding, Sloan faces the difficulty of staying connected with his friends and family. Between long practices and traveling for games, Sloan’s time with his friends is limited. 

“It’s tough because I don’t see everybody I used to see every day, but I love what I do, so I had to make that commitment,” said Sloan. 

Although his peers were sad to see him go, they awaited the exciting news as to which Division 1 school he would attend. On Oct. 12, Sloan announced his verbal commitment to continue his academic and athletic career at the University of Indiana. 

Sloan began playing soccer when he was 3 years old. Inspired by his dad, who played at Ohio State, Sloan knew from a young age that he was passionate about the game. His unwavering commitment reflects his love for the sport, as he has never experienced burnout. 

When the decision finally came, Sloan was conflicted; deciding whether to continue his dad’s legacy at Ohio State or follow his own path. During his school visits, Sloan instantly clicked with Indiana. He admired the coaching staff, the team, and the school atmosphere as a whole. 

“I remember asking my dad if I was disappointing him by choosing Indiana over Ohio State,” said Sloan. “My dad told me he’d be proud of me either way.”