Goal!

Plum’s Hudson “Andy” Strasser is a rising star in soccer.

Plum 10th-grader Hudson “Andy” Strasser has already made significant strides in his soccer career, earning accolades that showcase both his talent and dedication to the sport. From his early days on a developmental team to competing at the national level, Andy’s story is one of inspiration for soccer lovers everywhere.

Andy’s introduction to sports came through hockey, inspired by his dad who played from a young age. However, it didn’t take long for soccer to capture Andy’s heart. “All I wanted to do was play soccer,” he recalls. His first experience with the sport came with Twin Boro, a developmental team in the Riverview School District. That early exposure laid the foundation for what would become Andy’s passion.

While many young athletes look up to professional players, Andy’s biggest inspirations have always been closer to home—his parents. “While growing up, I have always looked up to them for advice, and they always have an answer,” he says. Neither of them had played soccer, making the journey a shared learning experience for the family. Their unwavering support has been a driving force behind his success, and Andy is always quick to express his gratitude.

Among his many achievements, one stands out above the rest: the Player’s Player award. Unlike some of the other accolades he’s received that recognize skill or performance, this award was a testament to his character and leadership. “This award was picked by all of my teammates,” Andy explains. “They picked me not for my soccer abilities, but for my personality and that I can thrive in a team environment.”

For Andy, soccer is as much about teamwork and relationships as it is about individual success. “I wouldn’t have the chance to play in any of these games without my other 10 teammates on the field with me.”

Andy has been part of championship teams at both regional and state levels—experiences that have shaped him both as a player and as a person. “Playing high-level games teaches me lessons about soccer and life,” he says. From forming close bonds with teammates to making critical decisions on the field, Andy values the personal growth that comes from high-stakes competition.

As a forward for the Pittsburgh Riverhounds ECNL team, Andy has had the opportunity to compete at an elite level. “With all the changes in every season of soccer, I’ve become a much different player every year,” he says. Being coachable and embracing new challenges has been key to Andy’s development.

When asked about the secret to his success, Andy details the importance of mastering the basics. “This means staying after practices and running, or going out of your comfort zone in practice so that you can do it in the game,” he explains. His commitment to honing fundamental skills has been a cornerstone of his training regimen.

Like any athlete, however, Andy has faced his share of setbacks. One of the most significant came during his freshman year at Plum High School when he saw limited playing time. Rather than letting it discourage him, Andy used the experience as motivation. “It pushed me to become a much better player and more determined than ever,” he says.

As a freshman and sophomore letterman, Andy is already a key contributor to his high school team. Looking ahead, he hopes to lead Plum to a WPIAL championship. His dedication to the team and his determination to succeed make him a natural leader, both on and off the field.

Andy’s ambitions extend far beyond high school. His goals are to play at the MLS NEXT academy level then move on to Division 1 soccer, with the ultimate dream of being drafted into Major League Soccer.

Hudson “Andy” Strasser’s story is still unfolding, but his accomplishments already speak volumes about his talent, character and potential. Whether he’s winning awards, leading his teammates or dreaming big about his future, Andy embodies the qualities of a true athlete. As he continues to grow and achieve, there’s no doubt that he’ll leave his mark on the soccer world.

Hudson “Andy” Strasser

Photo by Danny Moriarty.