With flair in his boots and fire in his heart, Ty Andreas Spranger is a dynamic midfielder for Sports Club Gwinnett Soccer (formerly known as Club The Strongest Atlanta), where he continues to turn heads with his creativity, pace, and relentless tenacity. Raised in the football-fueled streets of South East London and sharpened by personal drive and spiritual grounding, Ty plays the beautiful game with passion and purpose. Every time he steps on the pitch, he brings not only skill but also a spirit of leadership that inspires teammates and stuns opponents.

What first got you interested in playing soccer?
Definitely, my father’s love and skill for the game were passed down to me. Additionally, growing up in South East London, everyone was playing football in the local park cages or during break time at school, so I was playing every day, and my passion really grew from an early age.

How old were you when you started playing, and what do you remember about your first game?
I’d say I was probably between 3 and 5 years old. I remember playing my first game for a local Sunday league club that my parents took me to. I’m pretty sure I scored a banger that day too!

Who has been your biggest inspiration in soccer and why?
That’s easy — my father. His knowledge of the game and his experience playing at a high level during his youth meant he taught me a lot and helped me improve over the years. But more than that, he showed me how to carry myself off the pitch and away from the game as a mature and professional individual. I’m extremely grateful for that.

What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I’m a midfielder. I love being a playmaker and using my trickery to create something out of nothing for the benefit of my team, all while being at the centre of the game.

Describe your playing style in three words.
Pace, flair, and tenacity.

What’s been your favorite memory on the field so far?
That’s a tough one — there have been many great moments over the years. However, I’d have to say my favourite memory was when my son watched me play live for the first time. It was a playoff game against one of the top teams in the state. We lost, but his excitement and pure joy just to see me play reminded me of the importance of working hard and enjoying every moment, win or lose. It’s a blessing from God to be able to play the beautiful game.

How do you prepare mentally and physically for a big game?
Preparation starts well before match day. Throughout the week, I put in extra training sessions to fine-tune my game, stay sharp, and ensure I’m in the best condition possible to perform at a high level. On the day of the game, I like to stay relaxed and composed by listening to music and spending time with my family. Most importantly, reading God’s Word, the Bible, gives me strength, clarity, and the confidence to stay grounded and be true to myself when I step onto the pitch.

What’s your favorite soccer drill or practice routine?
The Ronaldinho drill is great for midfielders, and rondos are top as well.

Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I’m not superstitious or anything like that. I just say a prayer before I play. It helps me stay calm, focused, and grounded.

What does a typical training week look like for you?
Playing as a semi-professional means that, as a club, we typically train 2–3 times per week. To maintain a higher level, I follow a set schedule that includes 3–4 gym sessions focused on explosive power, plyometrics, and injury prevention, as well as 4–5 football sessions to work on my technique, technical ability, and conditioning.

How do you stay motivated during tough times or after a tough loss?
Tough times and losses are part of the game, but I see them as opportunities to grow. I stay motivated by reminding myself of my long-term goals and the progress I’ve made. My faith plays a big role too — reading the Bible gives me perspective and strength. I also lean on my support system — my family, coaches, and teammates — and go back to the training ground with even more hunger to improve and come back stronger.

Who is your favorite professional player and what do you admire about their game?
I enjoy watching Neymar play — his flair, combined with his mental strength, is something to learn from.

What’s your favorite professional team to watch?
Arsenal

What’s the best advice a coach has ever given you?
Your mindset is your biggest weapon.

What’s one skill or aspect of your game you’re currently working to improve?
I’m currently working on fine-tuning my finishing techniques.

How do you balance soccer with school, work, or other commitments?
It definitely takes discipline and good time management. I plan my days carefully to make sure I stay consistent with training while also handling work and personal responsibilities. Prioritising rest, staying organised, and keeping focused on my long-term goals helps me maintain that balance.

Have you ever had a setback or injury, and how did you overcome it?
I tore a ligament in my knee at the beginning of my last season in England, just before moving to the US. It was a painful setback, especially since I was at the top of my game and had scored three goals in two games. Overcoming it required patience, focused rehabilitation, and a strong mindset to come back even stronger.

What does being part of a team mean to you?
Being part of a team means working together towards a common goal, supporting each other both on and off the pitch. It’s about trust, communication, and pushing one another to be the best we can.

What do you like to do when you’re not playing soccer?
I enjoy travelling, serving my God Jehovah, and spending quality time with family and friends.

What’s your go-to snack or meal after a match?
A spinach and mixed fruit smoothie or rice and peas with jerk chicken.

If you could play a match anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Emirates Stadium

What advice would you give to younger players just starting out?
My advice would be to stay dedicated and patient. Focus on learning the fundamentals, listen to your coaches, and never be afraid to make mistakes — that’s how you grow. Most importantly, enjoy the game and play with passion, because that love for football will carry you through the tough times.

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