As an athlete, all you want to do is compete. Nothing but hard work is given everyday in hopes that someone will recognize the amount of effort you have shown, and reward you with the opportunity to show your skills on the biggest stage. Joe Gyau was struggling to make a lasting impression at his previous club, Hoffenheim. The manager at the time did not seem keen on giving Joe that chance. With his contract coming to the end of its time with the club, Joe began to receive interest from other organizations in the world of football. One in particular was German giant, Borussia Dortmund and manager at the time, Jurgen Klopp. With an offer in place, Gyau accepted, and from that moment forward, never looked back. Momentum in the form of a new club and a new environment, quickly showed in the Gyau’s play. He received invitations to train with the first team at Dortmund by Klopp, which would lead to multiple starts and praise from fellow players and his coaches. Jurgen Klinsmann and his staff quickly took notice of Gyau’s progress. He received his second call-up to the United States Mens National Team and secured his first start at the international level on Sep. 3, 2014, against the Czech Republic. Gyau’s pace and energy on the wings won the support of the faithful American fans and he quickly began to be labeled as a player that the national team could build with moving forward. As we all are aware, things can change rather quickly in sports, Gyau is living proof of this. On Oct. 10, 2014, Gyau’s career would hit one it’s highest and lowest points all in one day. Joe earned a starting role against Ecuador, his first on American soil, in front of friends and family who made the trip from Maryland to Connecticut. The rest is history…

I hope you all enjoy this interview as much as I enjoyed providing it! Joe Gyau is one of those athletes that, no matter what, you want to see succeed. His story is an intriguing journey through the highs and lows of being a professional athlete, and one that even you and I can relate to. He has shown incredible. perseverance during his time away from the game, and has relied on family and friends to keep him ready for the healthy days that are just around the corner. Thank you all for your time!

Michael Courtney

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