Christopher Vail Booth cherished playing soccer. The game immediately attracted him as a boy and sparked a passion that he carried with him all through his life.

Chris first began playing soccer in the Chemung Valley Soccer Association league, where his talents as a goalkeeper were honed in the recreational youth leagues and travel teams. These early experiences helped to give Chris the confidence and skill to succeed at all levels.

As a student at Elmira Southside and Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford, Connecticut, Chris excelled at the high school level, earning local distinctions and two All New England honors while at Choate.

Chris was selected to a number of New York State West Olympic Development Program squads and as the Central team keeper in the Empire State Games.

Chris continued his education and soccer career at Lehigh University by winning a starting spot on the varsity team and four letters.

The local adult leagues provided some of his most enjoyable moments on the field, and stories of his acrobatics will continue among area players for years to come.

Chris' love for the game of soccer grew out of his will to compete. He yearned for the chance to elevate his ability further than he ever had before. Soccer gave him the opportunity to fulfill this desire.