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'I've never had a coach like him:' How Jeremy Rafanello and coach Jeff Cook's bond is key for Penn State men's soccer

This time last year, Jeremy Rafanello wasn’t even planning on coming to Happy Valley to play soccer. Rafanello was committed to Drexel before changing his decision and committing to the Nittany Lions on National Signing Day of 2018.

Fast forward to the present day and Rafanello has started every game for Penn State as a freshman and has been arguably the most influential player so far this season. Rafanello scored his first career goal for the Nittany Lions just under 10 minutes into his debut, and since then has tallied another goal as well as an assist.

“Coming on to this soccer team, I’ve got to earn respect,” Rafanello said.