Andrey Kuzev

Athlete Info

Introduction

I want to show that athletic success and academic growth can go hand in hand. High school has helped me develop both as a student and as an athlete, and I’m excited to bring that balance to college. I believe in working hard, pushing myself, and supporting those around me, and I’m confident that my dedication will help me contribute to the success of the team, the classroom, and the college community as a whole.

Sport

Top Athletic Achievements

Goalkeeper season 2024/2025 - PFC CSKA 1948 Sofia, Bulgaria

During my time with CSKA 1948 Sofia, I gained valuable experience competing at the highest youth level and gradually transitioning into men’s football. I played 8 matches in the U17 Elite Championship, helping my team to 4 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses. In those games, I was recognized by Sportal.bg for a spectacular save against PFC Septemvri Sofia and later stood out with 4 key saves in a draw against FC Nacional Sofia.

My performances in the first half of the 2024/2025 season earned me a promotion to join the pre-season camp with the club’s second men’s team (Vtora Liga). In the second half of the season, I moved fully into men’s football, playing 6 matches with CSKA 1948 III. This step forward allowed me to sharpen my goalkeeping fundamentals and focus on the small details that make a big difference. At the same time, I regularly trained with the senior squad of PFC CSKA 1948 Sofia, learning from experienced players and gaining valuable insights into the professional game. I was also included in the match squad for the second men’s team in their final 3 fixtures.

To close the season, I joined the senior team for the first part of their pre-season in Bansko. Spending two weeks with them was an unforgettable experience — one that challenged me, inspired me, and helped me grow as both a player and a person.

Competitions & Tournaments

Goalkeeper 2023/2024 (first half of the season) - PFC Slavia, Bulgaria

In the first part of the U16 Elite Championship, I finished 5th with my team, serving as a backup goalkeeper while earning valuable experience in 4 matches — with 3 wins and 1 draw. My debut came in a tough match against PFC Arda Kardzhali, where I played a vital role in securing the result.

During my time at PFC Slavia Sofia, I was also given the opportunity to train with the club’s second men’s team, which competes in the Treta Liga. Training in a men’s environment at such a young age challenged me to raise my standards and accelerate my development as a goalkeeper.

Goalkeeper 2023/2024 (second half of the season) - PFC Septemvri Sofia, Bulgaria

At PFC Septemvri Sofia, I had the privilege of joining one of the strongest teams in our age group, which included six players from the Bulgarian national team. During the remainder of the U16 season, I played in 6 matches, contributing to 4 wins and 2 losses.

Through hard work and dedication, I earned the chance to train five times with the senior team of PFC Septemvri Sofia. Those experiences helped me adapt to the pace and physicality of men’s football, preparing me for the next step in my development.

My time at Septemvri also shaped me mentally, teaching me the importance of resilience, persistence, and working tirelessly to earn my place on the field.

Goalkeeper 2021 - 2023 - FC Sofia Sport, Bulgaria

My stay at FC Sofia Sport was mainly development; I played every match, 44 matches, won 18, drew 3, and lost 23.
I had the opportunity to play one official match for the senior team, even though I was 14 years old, for which I was praised by the team’s director, despite the loss.

Other Athletic Info

https://www.transfermarkt.com/andrey-kuzev/profil/spieler/1393603

https://sportal.bg/news-2024112715151303750

https://www.flashscore.com/player/kuzev-andrey/nPlPcXZa/

Academics

Other Achievements

There are many things that make me who I am beyond the field. I’ve been actively involved in event organization, helping backstage with catering, logistics, and artist support. I’ve had the privilege to work on major concerts, including Imagine Dragons (July 30, 2023), Grafa (September 30, 2023), and Ed Sheeran (August 31, 2024). These experiences taught me responsibility, teamwork, and how to perform under pressure.

I also have a strong passion for history and politics, sparked at the age of 10 by my interest in Europe’s 20th-century history. Since then, I’ve followed global affairs closely, which has given me a deeper understanding of how countries function and how decisions shape society.

At school, I’ve always been engaged in extracurricular activities. I’ve served as a tour guide during open days, acted as master of ceremonies on St. St. Cyril and Methodius Day, taken part in science fairs, language week events, and represented my school on the basketball team. I was also a member of the debate club and earned recognition on the teacher’s list of top students in both 8th and 9th grade. These experiences have strengthened my teamwork, leadership, and communication skills, while helping me build strong connections with my classmates and community.

Interview

What makes you different?

I have played as a goalkeeper throughout my entire career, and what defines me is hard work, dedication, and passion for the game. What sets me apart, however, are three qualities that make me a modern and unique keeper.

First, my ability to control the box — whether by confidently claiming crosses or punching the ball out of danger. Second, my mental strength and leadership. I stay fully focused in both training and matches, and if I concede a goal, I don’t let it affect me. A match lasts 90 minutes, and my focus is always on the next play. I use this mentality to inspire my teammates, encouraging them to fight until the very end.

Finally, my distribution is what separates me from many other goalkeepers. I use modern techniques such as side volleys, long throws, and accurate passing. Even when clearing the ball, I aim to turn it into a pass to keep our team in control of the game.

Why do you want to compete in college?

I want to be part of a college soccer team because it offers the perfect balance between high-level education and high-level competition. The U.S. college system is one of the best in the world, and I see it as the ideal pathway to chase my dream of playing professional football while also preparing for life beyond the game. Competing in college soccer will challenge me to grow as both a student and an athlete, and I believe this opportunity will bring me one step closer to achieving my goals.

College goals

I have many goals for college because I want to take full advantage of every opportunity, but two stand out the most. First, I want to grow — not only as a student and as an athlete, but also as a person. College offers the perfect environment to challenge yourself: a new place, new people, and different cultures, all while pushing to succeed both on the field and in the classroom.

Second, I want to elevate my game to the highest level and help my team compete for championships. I believe in myself, in hard work, and in the power of a team. I know I can contribute to creating success and achieving great things together.

Soccer and life Goals?

I have always dreamed of playing professional football, and I truly believe I have the ability to reach that goal by competing at the highest level in the United States. College soccer offers me the chance to pursue this dream while also earning a degree. By combining academics with athletics, I will continue to build the qualities that matter most — discipline, hard work, and consistency. Competing in college will not only prepare me for professional football but also give me the foundation and confidence to succeed in life after college.

Media

Andrey Kuzev (2008)- Goalkeeper highlights video