PITMAN--The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight for the week ending April 12th comes from New Jersey City University. A sophomore men's soccer player from Teaneck, NJ, Kevin Cavalcanti is currently pursuing a degree in International Business.
 
Name: Kevin Cavalcanti
Institution: New Jersey City University
Year: Sophomore
Sport: Men's Soccer
Hometown, State: Teaneck, NJ
High School: Paramus Catholic
Major: International Business
 
What made you choose your institution?
NJCU is made up of students from many different cultures, including my teammates. That was extremely big for me in choosing a school. 
 
What made you want to become a DIII collegiate athlete? 
My goal was always to play soccer at the collegiate level and also to be the first person in my family to pursue a college degree. It has been one of my biggest accomplishments.
 
What was your first memory of playing your sport?
At a very young age, my dad would always take me to the local parks in my town and teach me the fundamentals of the sport. I eventually grew a tremendous passion for it.
 
What has been the greatest or most memorable moment of your experience as a collegiate athlete?
My most memorable moment of my collegiate athlete experience so far was when I scored my first goal as a Gothic Knight. It was a beauty and I also helped my team get a 2-1 victory that game which made it all the sweeter.
 
Do you have any pre-game rituals? If so, what are they?
My pre-game ritual is to say a prayer a few minutes before every kickoff.
 
What famous athlete do you look up to?
My favorite athlete is Gattuso, who played for Milan and also the Italian National Team. He is one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. He is also strong, energetic, consistent, aggressive, and a hard tackling player with an extremely high work ethic.
 
Where do you see yourself in five years?
My goal is to be playing professionally in a few years.
 
What is your favorite part about being an NJAC student-athlete?
My favorite part of being able to be a NJAC student-athlete is being able to compete in one of the best conferences in the country. Every year we compete against some of the top teams in the nation and that just makes the experience all the more exciting and allows our team to grow.
 
What is your biggest accomplishment OFF the field, court, etc.?
My biggest accomplishment off the field is maintaining the GPA that I have at New Jersey City. I not only wanted to be the first person in my family to get a college degree, but do well in school at the same time.
 
Quick facts about Kevin…
Can't live without:  Soccer, Family, Friends
Favorite movie: 8 Mile
Favorite class you've ever taken: Micro & Programming
Favorite food: Brazilian Steakhouse
Biggest Fear: Spiders
Favorite musical artist: Meek Mill
 
*The NJAC Student-Athlete Spotlight deadline is every Friday by 10:00 AM. Fill out the survey and you could be selected!