The Student News Site of Westfield High School

Hi's Eye

The Student News Site of Westfield High School

Hi's Eye

The Student News Site of Westfield High School

Hi's Eye

Joe Greenspan soccer

​by Rebecca Freer
WHS alum Joseph Greenspan was drafted by Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids, describing his selection as “a dream come true.” Greenspan graduated WHS in 2011.

Greenspan said that it was always his dream  to play professionally, but when he decided to go the the Naval Academy, he was committed to serving his country and “accepted that playing pro was no longer an option.” However, his team at the Naval Academy had strong seasons that allowed him to draw attention, and he realized he “might have the opportunity to not only serve [his] country, but play professionally as well.” During his time at Navy he started 75 out of the 78 games he played, according to navysports.com.

His terms of service are currently unclear. Greenspan said: “I owe at least two years of active duty naval service before I can apply to be transferred to the reserves to pursue a career in professional soccer…. but I won’t be out of touch with the game or the Rapids.”

Athletic Director Ms. Sandra Mamary said that Greenspan, “always came back to his roots and never forgot where he came from.” At WHS, Greenspan made varsity as a sophomore and “was an integral part of the last time Westfield won the UCIAC Championship,” according to former WHS Soccer Coach Mr. George Kapner. “Having been drafted and signed and having the chance to have a professional career is something he could look back on years from now and be super proud of,” said Kapner.
Greenspan said: “I owe so much to Westfield for not only my development as a player, but also as a person. I learned a great deal during my time in the Westfield Soccer Association, and the public school system. I couldn’t be more excited to represent our town at the professional level.”
Greenspan said that it was always his dream  to play professionally, but when he decided to go the the Naval Academy, he was committed to serving his country and “accepted that playing pro was no longer an option.” However, his team at the Naval Academy had strong seasons that allowed him to draw attention, and he realized he “might have the opportunity to not only serve [his] country, but play professionally as well.” During his time at Navy he started 75 out of the 78 games he played, according to navysports.com.

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