(Editor's Note: This is part of a series of stories of the RUDY Award finalists. Two winners – one male and one female – will be announced at the conclusion of the end of the R.UD.Y.S. Awards Banquet on Monday.
R.U.D.Y.S. stands for Recognition and celebration of University of Dayton student-athletes Year-end Showcase. It is hosted by the UD Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and Dayton Athletics administration for the student-athletes to recognize individuals and teams for their accomplishments this past year.
These stories were written by students in Dr. Haozho Pu's HS 353 Sports Media class.)
Written by Margaret Schillinger, Matthew Novak, Luke Essing and Erika Vonderheide
Braden Seel, a senior midfielder, has spent four years representing the University of Dayton men's soccer program, building relationships and developing both on and off the field. The business major from Glenbrook, Illinois, described his time as a Flyer as meaningful, noting the pride he takes in representing the university after joining the program as a freshman and remaining throughout his collegiate career. Seel said his experience as a student-athlete helped shape his time management skills while balancing academics and athletics in a demanding environment. He also emphasized the importance of the professional expectations placed on athletes and how those standards contributed to his personal growth.
Known by teammates as reserved at first, Seel said he opens up over time and enjoys bringing humor to the locker room. He described himself as passionate, competitive and reserved, traits reflected in his approach as a midfielder. Seel credited his father as one of the most influential figures in his athletic journey, saying he provided guidance while encouraging independence.
Looking ahead, Seel hopes to pursue opportunities to play professionally while exploring a future in finance. His pregame routine includes listening to music and stepping onto the field left foot first before tying each shoe, a tradition he follows before every match.
Q: Describe yourself in three words."
A:" Passionate, competitive, reserved. "
Q: What does being a Flyer mean to you?"
A: "It means a lot, being able to represent the whole university. been here since the start, not being a transfer means a lot. I've built a lot of relationships here in the last 4 years."
Q: What is one of the most influential moments in your athletic career?"
A: "My dad being there with him and pushing him to be the best version of himself. Ever since I was a kid he would give me advice while still letting me take my own path."
Q: How has being a student-athlete contributed to your personal growth and development?"
A: "Helps time management skills, student athletes have a bunch of responsibilities, learning how to manage school and athletics can be challenging. Taught me how to build relationships. Being an athlete you are in a very professional environment where a lot of people are looking at you."
Q: What are your future goals and aspirations after graduating from UD?"
A: "Keep playing professionally anywhere, know what it won't provide, He wants to get into finance but doesn't have anything set in stone right now."
Q: How would your teammates describe you off the field?"
A: "More of the quiet type at first and could come off as shy, but as I get to know you I will open up. I like to not take things too seriously. I love to joke around."
Q: What's your pregame routine or superstition?"
A: "Listen to music in the locker room. Before each game I put my left foot on the field, tie my shoe, then put my right shoe on the field and tie it, then I run onto the field."
