Catching Up With The #ProDawgs: Henry Wingo
April 29, 2017 | Men's Soccer
The University of Washington men's soccer program has produced over 60 professional soccer players in over six different leagues between the MLS, USL, NASL and more. 20 former Washington student-athletes are currently playing or involved on 17 different organizations. This spring we will catch up with each of our current #ProDawgs to see what they have been up to since their time at the University of Washington.
Henry Wingo played in 58 matches for the Purple and Gold and totaled for two goals and four assists. His accolades include NSCAA All-far West Region Third Team (2015), All-Pac-12 Second Team (2015), Pac-12 All-Academic Second Team (2015), NSCAA All-Far West Region First Team (2016), All-Pac-12 Second Team (2016) and Pac-12 All-Academic Honorable Mention (2016).
Q: What team are you currently playing for, and how long have you been with them?
A: I currently play for Seattle Sounders FC. This is my first year.
Q: What other teams/leagues have you playing for/in since your time at UW?
A: Just the Sounders in the MLS.
Q: Is being a professional athlete what you imagined it would be? Why or why not?
A: Yeah I think so. I was fortunate enough to play for the Sounders Academy in high school, and during my years there I got a pretty good feeling of what it would be like to play for this club as a professional one day.
Q: What's it like having Cristian on the team with?
A: It's great, just like old times! He's an amazing player and great role model so it's a lot of fun being his teammate again.
Q: What does your average day look like now during the season?
A: Get up around 8:00am. Drive to training at Starfire. Between preparing for training, training, and taking care of your body post training - that will keep me busy from about 9:00am - 2:00pm. Then I head home and get ready to do it again the next day. Or occasionally hang out with friends for a little if they are out of class or aren't at practice! I opted to take winter and spring quarter off from school to help me adjust to professional life.
Q: What was going through your head the first time you played at Century Link?
A: I was excited, happy, proud and little nervous. There was a lot of emotions going on. But most of all I was really happy for my mom. Our home opener this year was on my mom's birthday. For her to see me make my home debut on her birthday was really special. If it wasn't for her none of this would've been possible. She's done everything in her power to raise my brothers and I support our dreams as best she could, so for her to see her youngest son achieve a dream of his on that day... I know she was proud.
Q: What's been your favorite part of being a professional athlete?
A: Having a job that doesn't feel like a job.
Q: What years did you play at UW?
A: 2014 -2016
Q: What did you major in?
A: I am working towards a major in Communications.
Q: What is something you miss most about UW?
A: I miss being around my teammates and friends every day, and of course eating at Conibear.
Q: What is one of your favorite memories from playing at Washington?
A: Round of 32 penalty shootout against Furman in the NCCA tournament. Spencer Richey with an all time performance between the sticks! Absolute legend.
Q: Any advice for any current or future Huskies that want to play professionally?
A: Work your hardest every day, take pride in everything you do, pay attention to details and most importantly - listen to your coaches.
