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Craig’s Niedermeier accepts UWGB offer

Photo

Photo by Gazette file photo

Janesville Craig goalie Max Niedermeier makes a save during the Parker vs. Craig soccer game at Craig.

JANESVILLE — Max Niedermeier doesn’t flinch in the face of on-coming danger.

The 6-foot, 5-inch Janesville Craig High School senior is nimble on his feet, fast with his hands and fearless enough to stop a soccer ball traveling 70 miles per hour.

The UW-Green Bay men’s soccer program likes Niedermeier’s pluck. Niedermeier accepted a scholarship from the NCAA Division I program, signing a national letter of intent Monday at Craig.

Niedermeier didn’t think he was going enjoy a signing day after he broke his ankle in a pick-up basketball game midway through the boys soccer season last fall.

“At that point, I was just talking (with UWGB). I felt like everything was over,” Niedermeier said. “I thought I let my team down in the prime time of the season.’’

But Niedermeier’s play in the Disney Classic in Orlando, Fla., last summer held UWGB’s interest, as well as a few Florida programs.

“UWGB seemed to be the better fit for me,” Niedermeier said. “I’m happy with the way things turned out.’’

Craig coach Charles Friedrich said Niedermeier has all the skills necessary for a top-flight goalkeeper.

“His size, his quickness and his hand-eye coordination sets him apart,” said Friedrich said.

Friedrich also said Niedermeier is a good game manager.

“Goalkeeping playing is controlled chaos,” Friedrich said. “On a 50-50 ball, a keeper has to know where to be and to anticipate the play, and that’s the great thing about Max.

“With that net area, you should score more times than not,” Friedrich said. “Max cuts down the angle and breaks down opponents.’’

Niedermeier is only beginning to reach his potential.

“I started playing as a freshman,” Niedermeier said. “I never had any real goalkeeping training. “I taught myself watching pro games on television.’’

Friedrich said Niedermeier will blossom.

“Wait until he gets one-on-one coaching from the UWGB staff,” said Friedrich. “He will be a force.’’