Prunis Signs to Westcliff University
June 10, 2019, Sterling, Colo. — Arthur Prunis from Reims, France became the fourth soccer student-athlete of the 2019 graduating class to continue his athletic and academic career. Prunis signed a National Letter of Intent (NLI) with Westcliff University in Irvine, Calif. of Orange County.
On his signing day, Prunis said, "I chose Westcliff University because when I called the coach, he gave me a good feeling because he had the right answers to the questions that I had. I am excited to meet new players next year as it's always good to meet new players from all over the world."
Prunis went on to add, "My experience at Northeastern Junior College (NJC) was great! I came as a defender and transitioned to play defensive midfielder. I had never played this position before and I totally fell in love with it. My first season we went to the final in Region IX, which was the first time in the history of NJC. The second year we were ranked as high as 12th in the country and I will never forget that!"
Joey O'Keefe, the first head coach to lead the Westcliff University Men's Soccer team says they cannot wait for Prunis to join them. "We are extremely excited about the addition of Arthur Prunis. Our plans for Arthur are for him to develop on and off the soccer field. He has great potential to continue playing soccer after he completes his Bachelor's Degree and it is our intention to help move him along in that process. His vision and experience in the central midfield are second to none; Arthur will bring his tactical and composed playing style to our game. In Orange County, Calif., Arthur will have many opportunities for exposure from several professional teams in the area. This coming season is our inaugural season at Westcliff University and we intend to step onto the field expecting to win every single game and lay a foundation for success in the following years of the program."
Plainsmen head coach Keith Buderus says Prunis' personality is going to be missed in Sterling. "Arthur brings a love and passion for the game that is hard to replicate. He is the type of young man who would play until his feet fell off. His soccer spirit and desire to improve were huge influences on the entire team throughout his two years at Northeastern. For 90 minutes, game after game, he played with a high work rate and tenacious personality. He sees the game very well and is the midfield general who instructs others. His high soccer IQ, on-field leadership, and determination to improve are a blessing for any coach. He started as a defensive midfield in 35 games over two seasons for us, leading our team to the program's best season."
Buderus went on to add, "I have full confidence in Arthur to continue playing after he graduates with a Bachelor's Degree. His passionate, gritty, take-no-prisoners type attitude will serve him very well as he continues to grow in the game. We are going to miss Arthur and wish him the best as he transitions to Westcliff University."