Submitted
Aiden Bryant, Hamilton Heights senior, has signed a letter of intent to play soccer for Manchester University in North Manchester this fall. Manchester University is a member of the Heartland Conference and a NCAA Division III athletic institution. He is the son of Mark and Heidi Bryant.
Bryant picked Manchester University because the school provides multiple academic outlets, offers a great environment, and he could see himself flourishing there.
“The soccer coaches have great energy and are confident,” said Bryant, who plans to earn a degree in biology as he prepares for a career as a Physician’s Assistant. “I can bring something to the team, and I know I can succeed at Manchester.”
Bryant has played soccer since he was 3, playing more seasons than he can count. He has trained with good coaches who have helped him to build his skill, agility, and strength in the sport.
“Mainly, I have worked hard and learned from the guidance and support of my coaches and teammates,” Bryant said. He credits Coach Collin Luckey, who he met his freshman year, as being influential and guiding him throughout his high school play.
“My parents also supported me through it all,” Bryant noted with appreciation.
He is as strong in the classroom as he is on the field. Bryant was named All Conference Honorable Mention and Academic All Conference in 2022. In 2023 he was named to the All Conference, Academic All Conference, and Academic All State teams, Coaches Player of the Year, Team MVP, and Defensive Player of the Year. Academically, he has been among the Top 10 percent of his class every year of high school (2020-2024). He is also a member of the National Honor Society, Arcadia Christian Church, and volunteers at Angel’s Attic and other local food pantries.
“I have coached Aiden Bryant since he was in middle school,” said Drew Colvin, Hamilton Heights Varsity Boys Soccer Coach. “He was the best defender I ever coached. His integrity and work ethic are unmatched. Players like Aiden make coaching fun and easy. He will succeed wherever he goes. I am very proud of him. Manchester University is getting a great young man.”
“Aiden has been one of the best student athletes to represent the boys’ soccer program at Hamilton Heights High School,” said Hamilton Heights High School Athletic Director Kurt Ogden. “He is very much respected by his peers, teachers, coaches, and administrators and has been a pleasure to know the past four years. We wish him well as he takes the next step of his journey at Manchester.”
“I would like to thank my family and everyone who supported me, stood by my side, pushed me to be my best and give my best every single day,” Bryant said.