Each soccer player’s path is shaped by their experiences, mentors and unwavering determination. Stephen Briggs, a former private lesson protégé of Carl Ashley’s, has forged a remarkable journey from New England youth leagues to the competitive pitches of Spain. Now playing for C.D. Leganés’ fourth squad, Stephen’s story exemplifies the transformative power of discipline and sacrifice in pursuit of greatness.
Foundations From Carl Ashley’s Mentorship
Stephen’s connection with Carl began when Carl noticed Stephen’s potential at a camp, and began training sessions with him prior to COVID. When the pandemic hit, Carl became Stephen’s personal trainer, focusing not just on skills but on attitude. Carl disliked Stephen’s initial approach as Stephen appeared disinterested and pouty. Carl confronted Stephen and his father, explaining that he frankly didn’t want to waste their time or money unless Stephen committed to changing his mindset. This no-nonsense approach resonated with Stephen’s father Izzy, who appreciated Carl’s brutal honesty and willingness to turn down very good money. Izzy spoke volumes on this, and after watching a few sessions, decided to go all in with Carl. From there, a stronger work ethic emerged in Stephen, fueled by Carl’s insistence on discipline.
“Once Stephen was committed and we had decided that we were both “all in,” he trained like a gladiator-and I don’t say that lightly,” Carl notes. “We would work together most days of the week for multiple hours. We would do both on-field ball work but also gym and conditioning work. I really tested Stephen to see how much he wanted it, and to show him how far he could push himself both physically and mentally.
This shift in mentality was pivotal for Stephen, laying the foundation for the growth that would carry him toward professional soccer. “He would often fail, and sometimes even break down in tears.” Carl recalls, “But we would ALWAYS complete whatever it was we were doing. And we would always repeat it soon after so he knew that to be successful, you can’t just take the easy route when things get hard. Instead, we would work harder until it seemed easier.”
Lessons for Aspiring Players: Sacrifice and Gratitude
Stephen’s story is a roadmap for players dreaming of a similar path to the professional ranks. “It takes a tremendous amount of sacrifice,” Stephen emphasizes. “I’ve had to miss out on a normal life that I see my peers enjoying to fully commit to my passion. But my journey has led me to places I never imagined myself being, so I don’t regret it at all.”
The Epsom, NH native also highlights invaluable sacrifices from his family as keys to his hopes of continued success. “My parents had to give up having me at home at 16 years old, which wasn’t nice-especially for my mom. There’s a lot of time spent driving me to practices and money spent for so many things just because I have a dream of being pro.” Briggs’ gratitude extends to all parents supporting their children’s dreams, recognizing their sacrifices as a cornerstone of young athletes’ success.
Living the Dream in Madrid
Adapting to life in Madrid was no small feat for Stephen. At just 16, he arrived in Spain without knowing the language, or having much understanding of the culture. Armed with determination and open-mindedness, Stephen gradually embraced his new surroundings, and was even affectionately nicknamed “Paco” by his Spanish teammates and colleagues.
Stephen speaks highly of his adopted home: “Madrid is an awesome city,” he shared. “I love the culture here and in Spain overall, but being able to get around Madrid without a car is really nice.” Beyond the pitch, immersing himself in Spanish culture has broadened his horizons, instilled a deep sense of adaptability, and fostered personal growth.
Setting Goals and Embracing Challenges
Stephen is driven by a relentless desire to improve. “My two goals this season are to score 10 league goals—I’m currently at three—and to get signed to the C team for next season,” he shares.
Training and competing in Spain has pushed Stephen to adapt to a higher level of play, sharpening both his technical skills and tactical understanding. Playing on renowned fields like La Masia has provided a glimpse of the elite heights he aspires to reach.
His career has thus far been marked by opportunities that have pushed him to test his limits. Competing in Spain’s youth leagues, he once faced a Barcelona Academy team featuring a young Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s rising star. Yamal scored a 30-minute hat trick before being substituted, leaving a lasting impression on Stephen. While recognizing the gap in skill, Stephen also noted that even top players make mistakes. This realization gave him confidence, showing that he could compete with the best, and motivating him to push forward.
Looking Ahead
Briggs’ journey is a testament to what can be achieved with the courage to pursue one’s dreams.
“As always, I’m very proud of Stephen (Paco) and everything he is achieving on the field, of course,” Carl reflects. “But what makes me most proud is his mindset to not give up and his determination to play professionally. Whether he does or not is completely irrelevant. The journey he has taken from when we first started, where his attitude was really poor if I’m honest, to where he is now living abroad in Spain and doing what he loves day in and day out…He now has life skills and life experiences that he will never forget and will lead him to success throughout his life, which is why we do what we do. Keep going Paco!”
For BES players and their families, Stephen’s story offers a powerful lesson: success in soccer requires a collective effort as well as the willingness to sacrifice. As he continues his career in Spain, Stephen Briggs remains a shining example of the values Carl Ashley instilled in him: hard work, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
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