Dickson follows dream to OSU

Ross Dickson knew exactly what he was looking for, and found it.

Dickson had his sights set on a top-notch program in the Big Ten, and that's just where he's headed. Dickson has made a verbal commitment to play next fall at Ohio State.

"It's my dream to play for a top college," Dickson said. "Maybe I can go farther and play pro after that.

"I always wanted to go to a D-I school."

The Patriots' senior midfielder spent time at the Buckeyes soccer camps over the summer and it opened his eyes to an opportunity to play at the next level.

"At the time, I went to one of their camps and that's when I got my offer," Dickson said. "It's a great school and a beautiful campus. I met all the guys on the team and it's a great team."

Ohio State has been a solid program in recent years and has been a runner-up to nationally ranked Indiana in the Big Ten. The Buckeyes lost to Indiana in the Big Ten final last year.

"I expect to play center or outside midfield, Dickson said. "Maybe in the middle or up top. My best place is in the middle -- I prefer to have ball control."

Dickson has been part of a successful Stevenson boys soccer team, playing midfield this fall. He has produced 12 goals and 10 assists through Tuesday.

"Fitness-wise, he's amazing in his conditioning," Stevenson coach Mark Schartner said. "Part of it is his will -- he hates to lose. It's all part of his character.

"He'll be successful wherever he goes. He's fast, he's quick and is a workhorse. He outworks everybody on the field."