Players usually run back and forth or from left to right in soccer. St. Joseph Flyers David Crossan seems to be running in a different direction.

A senior who was attending St. Joseph for the first time, Crossan had never played soccer in his life.

But fate took his hand and led him through an unforgettable season and eventually to Indiana Tech where Crossan signed a letter-of-intent to play for the NAIA school.

“Coach (Dan) Blair taught me about playing goalie as a backup. I was a defender and when Joe Unger got hurt, he moved me there,” said Crossan.

“I was kind of nervous at first, but I said I’ll give it a shot. It was the best move I ever made.”

It was an easy transition for Crossan who began to play the position like a seasoned veteran.

“It comes natural to me to use my hands and feet and my ability to jump. The guys who have been playing have good footwork and can dribble. This is my first year,” said Crossan.

The road to Indiana Tech had just as many curves as fate took yet another turn.

Mike Hurley, who owns an insurance agency in Ironton, has a brother Steve who live in West Virginia. Steve’s daughter Megan attends Indiana Tech and visited Ironton in order to attend the St. Joseph graduation.

Megan Hurley told Crossan about Indiana Tech and things took off from there.

Crossan, who also played basketball and baseball, plans to major in physical education with a minor in coaching.

“That was a major part of my decision. They offered what I wanted,” said Crossan who turned down offers from other schools including Defiance.

Martin Neuhoff, the 10-year veteran Warriors coach, was pleased to have Crossan join the program.

“I’m confident that in four years he will be graduating. I want his future lined up in a positive way,” said Neuhoff.

“I bring in a student-athlete that will bring his best. I look at the character. I want someone who is a good citizen. I want someone who is good on and off the field. I felt very comfortable with him. I got the feeling that he’s a never-say-die attitude.”

After signing his letter-of-intent, Crossan said there were a lot of people who helped him reach his goal.

“I want to thank all the people at St. Joe who help me, and I want to thank my family and friends,” said Crossan.

David is the son of Melissa and Lonnie Campbell of Ironton.