Noah Paravicini’s ’19 Journey to Professional Soccer

HANOVER, N.H. – In December, Noah Paravicini '19 joined Justin Donawa and Eduvie Ikoba as the third member of the 2019 Dartmouth men's soccer class to sign a professional contract. The former Big Green standout is set to begin his rookie season with Hartford Athletic in Connecticut of the United Soccer League (USL).

Paravicini seemed to be on the right track to the pro ranks through his first three years at Dartmouth, earning second team All-Ivy honors in both his sophomore and junior seasons. Paravicini tallied eight goals and eight assists during that time and helped lead the team to three consecutive Ivy championships and appearances in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

The summer before his senior season is when Paravicini's soccer career would take a bit of a detour. He suffered a sports hernia, which was misdiagnosed at first, and ended up playing 12 games in which, despite recording three assists, he was unable to run at full speed or display much power in his kicks.

"When I first took the job, I knew that Noah was a great player and leader in the Dartmouth program," said Bo Oshoniyi, the Bobby Clark Head Coach of Men's Soccer. "It was unfortunate that I never had the chance to coach Noah at full strength during our time together."

Paravicini had hopes of hearing his name called in the MLS draft after a strong Dartmouth career, but to no avail.

Paravicini did not let that waver his confidence. Determined to pursue professional soccer, he sought second opinions on his injury and opted for surgery. It took him seven months to fully recover and return to full strength. Thanks to many mentors along the way, he was able to train with the USL, which eventually led to a tryout with the Ventura County Fusion.

During the event, Paravacini was contacted by Hartford Athletic and signed shortly afterwards, ready to begin his professional career on opening day of the USL season that was set to begin in early March. But, just like the rest of the world, the season is on pause.

A silver lining for Paravicini is that whenever the season starts, he will be on the Hartford Athletic roster and will play in his first professional soccer game.

"His willingness to persevere through adversity just shows the kind of person and competitor he is," said Oshoniyi. "I always knew once he got back to full health that he would have the opportunity to follow his dreams as a professional. His best playing days are ahead of him and I am excited to watch how he continues his journey at the next level."

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