Christian Duke

Soccer - Class of 2009

"It is certainly fitting, when considering the rich tradition of soccer at Shawnee Mission South, that Christian Duke is the first soccer player to be inducted into the Raider Athletic Hall of Fame. Christian was a three-year letterman at Shawnee Mission South. During his junior and senior seasons at South, Christian earned First Team designations at every level of consideration - All-League, All-JoCo, All-Metro, All-NE Region, and All-State. Soccer America magazine featured him as a "Star of the Future," which proved to be very true as Cristian played collegiately at the University of San Diego (playing in one NCAA Final Four), being a first-round draft pick of Sporting KC of the MLS, and by playing professionally for both Energy FC and the Swope Park Rangers. As for his on-field performances, playing a position (center midfielder) difficult to quantify by hard statistics, he controlled the pace of the game and played with unbelievable poise and intelligence. However, all other accolades aside, what set Christian apart from his peers and contemporaries was his humility, will power, and work ethic. He represented his team and school with class and sportsmanship. His teammates genuinely respected the way in which he led, how he carried himself, and how he inspired others. His legacy of work and commitment continues to live on in the Shawnee Mission South soccer program in the "Duke Fitness Test," the standard by which athletes are currently measured in the program. It is certainly appropriate that Christian Duke become the first soccer player enshrined in the Raider Athletic Hall of Fame. No coach or teacher that ever had the chance to interact with Christian on any level would agree – there will not be any other athlete inducted into the Raider Hall of Fame who is more deserving of the honor for all of the right reasons. Christian, welcome to where you belong."