Freshman Cooper Sayles is eager and ready to get back out onto the soccer field.
 
The Virginia native comes to Binghamton fresh off leading his team at Loudon Valley High School to a regional championship victory. Sayles is already feeling at home in Binghamton with the help of his teammates and coaches.
 
In this interview, he shares his love for soccer, the journey that brought him to Binghamton and his mindset in starting this unique season.
 
 
Why did you first start playing soccer? What is your first memory of the sport?
 
I've been playing soccer my whole life, for as long as I can remember. My dad first introduced me to the sport. He played through high school before he had an injury that made him give up on playing. He coached me when I was first learning how to play. My first memory is probably being on a mini field with my him coaching me from the sideline. 
 
When did you realize you were interested in becoming a Division I athlete?
 
I've always been interested in playing at the next level. Whatever that level may be. I would simply strive to be a better player. I started out playing travel ball probably when I was 11 or 12, and I was on the lowest team possible. I gradually worked my way up to where I am today and if it wasn't for the great coaches I've had, I wouldn't have been able to make the leap from club soccer to Binghamton.
 
What is your favorite memory in soccer?
 
My favorite memory in soccer without a doubt was when my high school soccer team won the regional championship. For three years straight, my team couldn't register a single win. Yet, one season later we all came together to display a true "Cinderella story". Being able to experience lifting that trophy with my four lifelong friends is something I will never forget.
 
Why did you choose Binghamton?
 
I didn't know much about Binghamton until my first tour and conversation with Coach Marco. After I saw the beautiful campus and class facilities, Bing became a top choice. Given that it was an out of state school for me, I had to consider the cheaper, instate options. Although in the end, it wasn't all the great buildings and facilities here that made me choose Bing. It was the mindset of the coaching staff and the players that really stood out. When I asked Coach what his goals were for the next season and for the next four years. His only response was "We want to win", and that's good enough for me.
 
What is your greatest individual and team accomplishment in soccer?
 
My greatest individual achievement would probably be being on this Binghamton team. As far as team accomplishments, I'd say when my high school team won the regional championship.
 
Who are your mentors?
 
When thinking about soccer, I'd say one of my mentors would be my dad, because of how much he taught me and how much he motivates and pushes me to be better. Although all-around, one of my favorite players who I'd consider my idol is Luka Modric, because of how hard he works for his club and country.
 
Do you have any family members who played a sport collegiately or professionally? Any family or friend connections to Binghamton?
 
I am the first of my family to play a collegiate or professional sport. I knew a few of the guys that were already on the team before I got here, so it was nice to have my foot in the door when it came to meeting the team.
 
What is your best non-athletic talent?
 
Apart from athletics, I'm probably best at cooking. I really like to cook and I like to know exactly what I am putting into my body. Unfortunately, right now there are many restrictions to using the kitchen in our building. My favorite thing to cook is grilled shrimp because it cooks quickly and I can use it in different ways whether it be a kabob, a rice bowl, or a wrap.
 
What is the best vacation you've ever taken?
 
My family went on a cruise down through the Caribbean and one of my best friends came along and we had a great week to relax and explore some other countries and cultures.
 
What major do you intend to pursue?
 
I came into Binghamton intending to work on a business major, but I am going in undecided with an option to transfer into the business school. Although who knows, in the next few months or so things could change.
 
What were a few challenges that COVID-19 presented to you as you finished up your senior year?
 
Everything was canceled. No school, no prom, no sports, no true graduation. My graduation was me walking by myself through an empty gym to get my diploma from my principal. The only thing I could do for summer was get a few friends together and go to my Grandparents beach house. Without COVID-19, I probably wouldn't have been able to spend as much time as I did with family and friends as I would have. These days everyone has such hectic schedules -- it's tough to make time for the things that matter. It's nice to be able to spend real time with them, but it is unfortunate what we had to lose as well.
 
What has been your mindset as you begin your college career under these unique circumstances? 
 
I just have to wait it out really. I'm waiting to get this season underway and the only thing we can do is prepare. So once we start training we will be all out pushing each other so we can be the best version of ourselves when we start playing games. Academically, this could be a good way for me to ease into the new rigor of college courses. Since everything is canceled, I have plenty of time for homework and studying.
 
How has your team helped you with the adjustment to Binghamton?
 
Everyone has been very welcoming and helpful. Because there are only three true freshmen, it's a lot easier for them to reach out and get to know us. The older guys are always willing and able to help drive us wherever if we ever need anything and they also offer help with any classes since they have all been through the same courses, so it's great to have that resource if we ever need help in a class. We are very grateful to be able to have the group of guys that we do.