Soccer players get European experience

After standout years at IU, sophomore midfielder Rich Balchan and junior defender Ofori Sarkodie took their talents to Europe.

Balchan spent a few weeks as a member of the U.S. U-20 national team, while Sarkodie spent a month training with Aalesund FK in Norway, Boavista in Portugal, and SC Heerenveen in the Netherlands.

“(I loved) the diverse culture, seeing so many different types of people,” Sarkodie said. “The languages, the way they carry themselves, the style of football. It was an absolute priceless experience for me.”

Balchan was a member of the Big Ten All-Freshman Team and had four goals in 2007. After starting 16 games as a freshman, he was selected to represent the United States, as one of the 18 players chosen. He traveled to England competing against reserve teams from Manchester United and Bolton, Texas to play the Mexican team and Ireland for a tournament.

First-team All-Big Ten selection Sarkodie was an integral part of IU’s 12 shutouts in 2007. He contacted representatives who deal with foreign players to set up training periods with the clubs. Both Sarkodie and Balchan agreed the differences between the NCAA and Europe were vast. Playing with professionals daily challenged Sarkodie.

“Just the quality of play was more than I expected,” Sarkodie said. “It was such a great learning experience. (It) really gave me a good idea of where I stood as a football player right now.”

Balchan also said the European fast-paced style provided a contrast to the physical, aggressive college method. 

“I improved a lot over the summer, just on my touch,” Balchan said. “Last year, oftentimes I would get the ball without knowing what I would do next. Overseas, you have to play so quick or you’ll turn the ball over.”

Fluent in Spanish and his native Ghanan language, Sarkodie said not knowing the lingo was a main reason he enjoyed being abroad.

“It was interesting going in the locker room day in and day out with those guys,” Sarkodie said. “A little bit of a barrier, but at the same time, it’s part of the experience and you enjoy it as well. When you get put in a brand-new environment – language barriers, climate, what coaches are used to, what players are used to, what the standard is – you have to adjust,” Sarkodie said. “But that’s also part of being a professional at that level.”

Balchan, echoing the Olympic spirit, enjoyed his first experience competing for the United States.

“(I loved) representing my country, wearing the jersey with pride, giving my all for my country,” Balchan said.

With two games this weekend, against Duke and Akron, Sarkodie will have an opportunity to show off his new knowledge and reunite with his teammates in a competitive atmosphere.

“I definitely missed the guys, the college atmosphere,” Sarkodie said. “I’m happy to be back. I feel right at home right now.”