Not many incoming freshmen venture into preseason at soccer powerhouse Creighton University, or any institution of higher learning for that matter, with the same level of experience as Orlando City U23s Midfielder Noah Franke.

A former Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) U.S. Soccer Development Academy (USSDA) Captain, Franke has a stellar on-field resume – the result of spending an extra season in the City youth system following his high school senior year in 2013.

After leading the U18 USSDA team in goals and assists in 2012/13, along placing first in the USSDA for matches started in 2013/14, Franke was called up to the Orlando City U23s, providing an uncommon and developmentally rich summer that included matches against high profile professional clubs like São Paolo and Portland Timbers, as well as other seasoned college players. That experience was invaluable prior to launching his collegiate career, according to his father.

“Having him stay back last year was the best decision we made,” said Tom Franke. “Finishing up his season with the U23s gave him the chance to play with and against veteran college players and experience playing against teams such as São Paulo and Portland. We couldn’t have imagined a better scenario for him heading into his college career.”

Since arriving to Creighton, Franke participated in an exhibition match with the NCAA Division I side – demonstrating the maturity of an upper-classman.

“He played the entire second half at right-back and did really well in his first game,” added the elder Franke. “I know he felt confident there because of his playing time with the U23s over the summer.”

As the upcoming season draws near, Noah Franke is focused and determined on becoming an impact player for the Bluejays with hopes of one-day donning City purple.

“We’re excited for him to be in such a great situation at Creighton with academics and a tradition rich soccer program,” Tom Franke continued. “He’s committed to doing well in both, and hopes to be a strong candidate to be an Orlando City homegrown player one day.”