At Tales From Sport, we believe in giving athletes the platform to tell their stories first-hand. Of course, fans of any sports will always have their own opinion on what a players greatest moment was, but does that player feel the same? Or is there another, more personal moment that stands above all others?
In this series, we will be asking professional athletes from various sports one simple question, What do you consider the greatest moment of your career?
In the latest edition of this series, Professional Footballer Ollie Wright joins us to share his answer.
My favourite moment so far in soccer would have to be the day I signed my first pro contract. Being a pro is something I’ve dreamt of achieving from day one, and something that my family have always supported ever since I was a kid. To finally put that pen to paper, and confirm that the dream had come true, that was such a special moment for me. It’s been a long and confusing journey; Being released from a few pro clubs as a kid, leaving home to come to the USA, COVID shutting down collegiate seasons etc. The moment I signed my first deal, it just felt like every sacrifice, every hardship I’d felt in my life was worth it. The phone call I made back home when I told my parents I’d been offered a contract was something I’ll never forget. They were so happy, so proud! To hear them express what my achievements meant to them, that was when it really hit home. I don’t often dwell on successes or failures in life, I often look forward to the next challenge or goal. But that day was one where I had to sit back and take it all in, and give myself a pat on the back. Mission accomplished.
Ollie Wright Profile
Ollie Wright plays as an attacking midfielder for USL Championship side Rio Grande Valley FC Toros, having joined from fellow USL-C side San Antonio FC for the 2022 season.
Born in London, Ollie spent time in the academy systems at both Brentford and Fulham before moving to the States and playing college soccer for St. Mary’s University Rattlers.
During his time with the Rattlers, Ollie racked up an impressive 12 goals and 18 assists in 55 games. His strong play was recognised through numerous awards, including selection to the All-Heartland Conference Third Team in 2018. In 2019, Ollie received Lone Star Conference Player of the Year, Lone Star Conference Midfielder of the Year, South Central Region Player of the Year as well as being named D2CCA and United Soccer Coaches All-American. He was also named St. Mary’s Male Athlete of the Year.
| Season | GP | G | A | GWG | Pens | Mins |
| 2017 | 17 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0-0 | 877 |
| 2018 | 18 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 0-0 | 1125 |
| 2019 | 20 | 8 | 12 | 3 | 2-2 | 1379 |
| Total | 55 | 12 | 18 | 3 | 2-2 | 3381 |
In 2019, Wright also played for USL League 2 side Corpus Christi FC. In his one season with The Sharks, Ollie had an incredible 7 goals and 15 assists in just 14 games – his 15 assists standing as a league record.
After such a historic year I am delighted to hear Ollie has been awarded Male Athlete of the Year. He had some huge moments in our 2019 season and has a bright future ahead of him. He’s a good person on and off the field and has a real passion for St. Mary’s. Congratulations to Emilio for sharing the award and to all the rest of the nominees.
Johnny clifford – St mary’s university head mens soccer coach
In December 2020, Ollie joined San Antonio FC ahead of the 2021 USL Championship season, his first as a professional. He played in a total of 14 games as San Antonio qualified for the USL Championship playoffs. San Antonio would go on to lose on penalties to eventual champions Orange County SC in the Conference Finals.
For the 2022 season, Ollie joined his current team, Rio Grande Valley FC Toros. Unfortunately, his season has been somewhat curtailed by a foot injury sustained just prior to the season starting.
Everyone at Tales From Sport would like to wish Ollie and Rio Grande Valley FC Toros all the best for the rest of the season.
You can check out some of Ollie’s highlight on his YouTube channel and follow his progress on Twitter and Instagram
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