USL Aces Interview: Featuring Lewis Hilton

Here we have another USL player interview. This time we were lucky enough to have Lewis Hilton of the Charlotte Independence. We've interviewed Americans, French players, and now we have an Englishman. Lewis Hilton is a constant starter for the Independence as they look to be moving into a USL playoff run. We want to thank Lewis for his in-depth answers, we hope you enjoy:

USL Aces: You were born in England with a very strong soccer culture. Who did you support growing up and how did that environment shape you into becoming a professional?

LH: I grew up in a small town in the southwest of England called Newquay. But my parents are from london so I have supported West ham United my whole life because of their influence. "Soccer" is huge in England. Literally every kid growing up plays soccer and supports a team. Because everyone is exposed to the sport it increases the depth of talent all over the country. The game is so popular in England and there is such large passion for it. I believe this environment played a role in becoming a professional. It's almost every little kids dream to play the sport for a living. It's all I ever did as a kid and I had the drive and determination to reach my dream from a very young age!

USL Aces: You played at Young Harris College for four years where you were an All-American. How did your time there help contribute to where you are today?

LH: Coming over to the US gave me an opportunity to keep my dream of play professionally alive. I loved every minute whilst being at young Harris college. YHC provided a perfect environment for me to progress and improve every day. Coach mark McKeever played a huge role in my development. He guided and pushed me to be the best player I could be. He was relentless in holding me to the highest possible standard. He knew exactly how I needed to be guided to progress to the next level. I'll always be grateful for coach McKeevers direction.

USL Aces: While at college, you played for the PDL team Ocala Stampede. You made 34 appearances for them while scoring 11 goals. Who or what there helped you the most in your personal and soccer life?

LH: My time with the Ocala stampede was a great experience for me. Again, it was an environment that allowed me to keep progressing. We had 2 great teams in 2014/2015 reaching the national final 4 both times. Coaches Cheyne Roberts, Owen "Mac" McCarthy and Antonio Marinell all played a big role in my progression. They are three great coaches and people who I still keep in touch with. They have a great knowledge of the game and they provided a great environment for me to keep improving.

USL Aces: How was your transition from England to the US? What is your view of the level of soccer in the United States?

LH: My transition from England to the US was surprisingly smooth. At young Harris college I was surrounded with teammates from all over the world and British coaches. So I wasn't exposed to the "USA style of play" straight away. However, I did struggle with adapting to the hot climate and altitude in the north GA mountains! Also the count down clock and over time was something I had to get used to!

Once again, thank you to Lewis into offering an interesting insight into his life, playing career, and transition from England to the United States. We hope you guys enjoy and continue to follow Lewis on his journey in U.S. soccer!