PEORIA, Ill. – Get to know more about Bradley Soccer captain Charlie Dickerson after his first season as a Brave.
Dickerson, originally from Norwich, England, is an example of dedication and resiliency despite all the challenges faced throughout his journey. He started playing soccer when he was four years old. During most of his childhood, he played for Norwich City Academy, but unfortunately, he was released at a very young age.
The moment he left the academy was crucial in his playing career, as he did not give up on his dreams. He continued playing recreational soccer until an opportunity to start playing soccer in the United States arose. Dickerson enjoys having a challenge to prove people wrong.
A few years later, Dickerson transferred to Bradley after playing for Jefferson College. Dickerson quickly made his mark at Bradley University as former head coach Jim DeRose selected him as team captain for the 2023 season during his first season playing for the Braves.
"I have so much appreciation for [Jim] DeRose," Dickerson said. "Nothing will be forgotten, from what he has done for me, bringing me to Bradley, giving me captaincy, and letting me just play and start every game last season,"
Dickerson's strong personality makes him a great leader for his teammates. A player who likes to be vocal during games and practices strives to be a role model for the younger players in the squad. Dickerson loves to defend and tries to replicate Sergio Ramos and Paolo Maldini while playing on the field.
"I just have a passion for defending, I love to defend," Dickerson said. "I would rather make a last-ditch tackle than score a winning goal."
Dickerson is grateful for all opportunities and believes Bradley has a special team. The best part of his experience is the company around him.
"I think our team is just the best team to be around," Dickerson said. "We have got great diversity, we have got lads from all over the world, we have got people that want to come into training and work hard,"
Dickerson looks forward to the future as Tim Regan takes over as head coach for next season. Dickerson shared his thoughts about Regan and the future of the program.
"Tim is great news, a guy that has been there and done that," Dickerson said. "I aspire to do exactly the same he has done in his playing career,"
Playing soccer at a Division I level is a privilege only a few people have. Dickerson shares what it means to represent Bradley when playing at the highest level in collegiate sports.
"Unreal, It is something not a lot of people get the opportunity to do," Dickerson said. "Having the Bradley badge and representing such a prestigious school is something special,"
Dickerson has a clear goal and will not stop until he achieves it. Soccer is his passion, and he wants to continue doing what he loves.
"I'm not going to stop working, and I'm going to keep on going until I reach my goal," Dickerson said. "My goal is to make it to the very top, whether it is playing in the MLS, whether it is making it to the USL Championship, I also have an aspiration to be a coach… I just want to stay in the game."
