Ansger Otto began his collegiate soccer career at Division III Stevenson University and quickly emerged as a superstar for the Mustangs. In his freshman season, he led the team with 22 points and was tied for first with nine goals. Otto’s hard work and persistence earned him CAC Rookie of the Year, All-CAC First Team and ECAC Division III South Rookie of the Year honors.

But it did not stop there for the technically gifted agile all-star. In his sophomore season, Otto led the Mustangs with 18 goals, 15 assists and 51 points. Due to his success on the pitch, Otto was named CAC Player of the Year, second-straight All-CAC First Team Selection, NSCAA/Performance Subaru Men’s NCAA Division III All-South-Atlantic Region First Team, NSCAA/Performance Subaru Men’s NCAA Division III All-America Team second team honoree (first All-American selection in Mustangs history) and D3soccer.com All-America Second Team.

After dominating on the DIII level, Otto transfered and joined Division I Iona College. In his first season as a Gael, Otto scored a team high seven goals and was named All-MAAC First Team and 2011 NSCAA Men’s Division I All-North Atlantic First Team. In his final year, Otto led the Gaels again with seven goals and a team-high 18 points.

Now that collegiate soccer is over, what is next for the talented finisher?

“I definitely want to go pro. Football is my life and my dream. I have always dreamed of following my father’s footsteps. My father was both a pro player and coach,” Otto said.

Although there might not be an exact destination for Otto to play at the next level, he is keeping his options open and improving his play. “I want to play in the MLS or overseas, right now I am taking a week or two off then I am going to start to workout, work on my stamina, quickness, speed, skills and finishing.”

Otto remains optimistic and is hoping he will be invited to the MLS combine. “I will be happy, if not whoever my agent is will help me get a try-out.” In addition, Otto has highlight tapes that he plans on sending to teams in his hopes to fulfill his long life dream.

His ultimate desire would to be given the chance to play with his favorite club team, Chelsea FC. However, Otto noted, “Any professional team I get to play on is a dream come true.” From DIII to DI, Otto certainly has the ambition, desire and skill set to take the next leap to becoming a professional soccer player.