Ottumwa -- New Indian Hills men's soccer coach Jared Beauchamp says Joe Roche-Gerrard has signed a letter of intent to attend Indian Hills and play soccer for the Warriors.

Roche-Gerrard spent two weeks training in Italy last year and is a multi-sport athlete in his home country.

The future IHCC player began competing in soccer when he was five years old, playing for Stevenage Borough FC. After "trying out all positions" he said it was determined that defense was the best spot for him. Roche-Gerrard played for all three school teams where he attended and spent six years playing for Fairlands Youth FC. Twice he played in the Danacup in Denmark, his team reaching the semifinals of the event. Last year, he trained for two weeks at Sportilia in Italy with his Watford North Herts Academy team.

"I am anxious to play soccer in America because I think it will open new doors for me," Roche-Gerrard said. "I want to experience playing, learning and living in the USA. I would like to continue studying sports with the ultimate aim of becoming a strength and conditioning coach."

Roche-Gerrard describes himself as a keen athlete who enjoys the gym. He has participated in rugby, badminton and track events in his youth.

Beauchamp says, "I am really excited to have Joe come in next year. I believe he is a really solid defender and has the ability to read the game very well. He will make a big impact on our team and help us move the program in the right direction."