A Few Words With Chivas USA Striker (and Former RSL Fan) Justin Braun

Photo by Juan Miranda/Chivas USA

Chivas USA striker Justin Braun has had an amazing rise within a year from rec league player in Utah to MLS pro. He could play a major role in Saturday's 7:30 p.m. must-win Chivas USA-Real Salt Lake playoff decider (for tickets call 1-877-CHIVAS-1) that follows last weekend's 1-0 loss in Utah.

Q: Reflect on the last year going from recreational soccer to professional player. Are you still pinching yourself?
A: This time last year I was working in a soccer shop, working probably 20 hours a week, going to school, having fun with that. As far as where I came from to where I'm at, it's been a crazy ride. I'm kind of settled in now, I'm starting to realize that I'm here, and I'm looking forward to keeping to play. It's kind of crazy how I got started; I'm trying to take it and run with it now.

Q: Were you a Real Salt Lake fan before signing for Chivas USA? What's it like facing the pro team from your home state here?
A: I was a fan. My parents had season tickets and I was at most of the games, in the crowd cheering for them. As far as playing against them now, I always want to get the chance to be on the field, and it's been fun. But it's just another team, as for me right now, and I kind of take it like it's another game.

Q: How was your first playoff game as a pro in your home state? And were your family and friends cheering for Real Salt Lake or Chivas USA?
A: It was a great experience. I probably had around 20 close friends and family, there was a group of them. They were definitely cheering for Chivas - had all their Chivas gear on, I had gotten most of them jerseys. So it was good to have them there, and get their support. As far as the first game, it was an amazing experience, something I never thought I'd get to experience and it was a once-in-a-lifetime thing for me.

Q: Assess your strengths and weaknesses as a player. What are your best
attributes? What do you need to work on?
A: I think my best attribute is my willingness to work hard. I think I have some speed that can be used, and I'm willing to fight. As far as what I need to improve, I think I can work on a little bit on technique and my touch. If I can get that a little better I'd be much more of a threat.

Q: How do you like the Southern California lifestyle compared to Utah or do you miss the skiing (which I think they may just be starting up there). What do you like to do in your spare time?
A: I'm enjoying living down here. I'd rather live in Utah; I grew up there and it's kind of my comfort zone. I enjoy the weather a bit more in Utah, the change of seasons. I live here with a few of the other guys from the team, and as far as free time, all of us just hang out all the time, go to the beach, and try to stay busy.

Q: What are your goals with Chivas USA for the remainder of the season/next year? Or are you just taking things as they come?
A:The ultimate goal [for me] right now is I'm trying to get a spot on the senior roster, earn a spot on there. I'm just trying to do my thing, and hopefully I'll get rewarded for the progress I've made this year.