He was one of only eleven student-athletes in the country to be named a finalist for the Lowe's Senior Class Soccer Award, experienced a 2-1 professional “futbol” Roma win over AC Milan in Rome, loves Tollhouse Chocolate Chip cookies and, by the way, carries a 3.64 GPA as a finance major. The latter achievement earned Adam Gartner Academic All American honors.

The soon-to-graduate Iowa City, Iowa native thrived under head coach Adam Howarth's leadership and did so with an awareness of the community support that lends so strongly to his and his team's overall experience at Eastern Illinois University.

“The attendance at our games significantly boosts our morale,” Gartner admits. “Seeing the fans in the stands shows us that we are playing more than for ourselves; we're playing for them, too.” Those fans span several generations and to witness the multitude of youth soccer players in attendance makes it easy to see how integrated Gartner's team is in the community.

EIU's coaching staff organizes a youth club soccer program that serves preschool to 2nd graders in Charleston. The program is coached by the team and Gartner believes it makes for a large part of their fan base. “Not only is it good to reach out to the community, but the kids look up to us. We have a great time and have worked together to raise the bar of soccer in Charleston.”

One thing is for sure: Gartner's example on and off the field has left a lasting impression on the program for generations to come.

More with Adam Gartner

Q. What was behind your decision to attend Eastern Illinois University?
A. I always knew I wanted to play college soccer. The coach and players on the team had a major influence on my decision as well as the opportunity to study for a finance degree. The size and home-like feel of Charleston was also a contributing factor.

Q. What do you hope to do with your finance degree?
A. My dream is to become a financial advisor and manage individuals and business' finances.

Q. What has been your most rewarding experience in the Charleston/Mattoon community?
A. I really enjoyed teaching young kids how to play soccer and most importantly how to have fun with the game.

Q. What effect has being a student-athlete had on your personal life?
A. It has taught me great discipline in having to prioritize my responsibilities and interacting with other student-athletes outside the playing field.

Q. How would you define your team's chemistry?
A. We were all best friends both on and off the field and we always worked very well as a team. We were able to combine competition and fun to have successful seasons together.

Q. What's your fondest memory in a Panther uniform?
A. My senior day against Creighton. It was my last home game and they were ranked #2 in the nation. Although we lost the game, it was the most fun I have had on the field playing with all my teammates and everyone on the team left everything they had on the field.

Q. What has your experience been like as a student at Eastern Illinois University?
A. I have had many memories I will never forget with my team and friends. Eastern has prepared me to go on to the professional world and do things that I know I will enjoy.

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