FRISCO – A high school graduation ceremony is a milestone and rite of passage in any teenager's life. One that Paxton Pomykal didn't get to experience due to being in the 18 on Saturday, June 9 against the Montreal Impact.
"When I figured out I was in the 18, I let my teachers know because obviously, it’s a job," said Pomykal. "You can’t miss something like that. But it was good and bad. I was happy I was in the 18, obviously because that’s an achievement in an of itself. But then also to attend my graduation would’ve been good for my family and for my friends."
Paxton had no idea that a surprise would be waiting for him after practice, where head coach Oscar Pareja surprised him with an impromptu speech before he was presented with his cap, gown and diploma.
"I came to practice not knowing anything and then after training, honestly when Matt [Hedges] grabbed me I though 'oh this is a joke.' And then Oscar was talking. And I didn’t know that you guys actually went and [got my high school diploma]. I thought you guys were just congratulating me and giving me a cap and gown." Paxton's teammates cheered him on and gave him a round of applause to congratulate the young midfielder on his achievement. "I read my diploma and thought ‘oh this is real’, so that was awesome. It was a cool experience."
So now that he's a high school grad and full-time MLS player, what's next for Paxton? "Time to get my college degree. Let’s do it!"
