Hudson graduate Will Jackson, Highland alum Joey Paulus love captaining Akron Zips soccer

Akron just hits different.

Defender Will Jackson, a 2019 Hudson graduate, could have gone elsewhere to play college soccer.

The same can be said for midfielder Joey Paulus, who graduated from Highland in 2019.

Instead, they came to Jared Embick and, along with Sam Tojaga, now are the captains of a top-five Division I men's soccer team in the nation.

“It means the world to me and Joe,” Jackson said. “We grew up in and around Akron. All we did was want to come to games, watch the team, be around the team. It's a dream come true.

“If you asked me two years ago as a freshman or sophomore, I think there was no chance I'd be a captain. But I think with time and maturing, I've stepped into the role. I appreciate it and I'm trying to make the most of it.”

Akron Zips mystique not lost on Will Jackson, Joey Paulus

Jackson and Paulus played club for the Internationals, so there was a familiarity with the Zips.

Then again, Akron didn’t need much of an introduction with 25 Division I NCAA Tournament appearances, six College Cup showings, three national runner-up finishes and a title in 2010.

Days as a grade schooler in the stands turned into nights as the leaders of a team ranked fifth in the nation.

“It's very special to me,” Paulus said. “It’s something that I've worked hard for three or four years. I kind of matured and got ready for this responsibility.

“Every day I just try to lead my teammates, whether that's on the field or off the field. I just try to do what’s best for the program. I’m really enjoying it.”

The season is 10 games old and Akron is still unbeaten

The good times are rolling at Akron after the Zips beat Seton Hall 3-1 to win their first Big East game in program history.

Jason Shokalook sandwiched goals around one by Alejandro Varela and Akron (6-0-4, 1-0-2) stayed unbeaten this season.

Both Jackson and Paulus walked off the field with heads held high after yet another workmanlike performance.

Jackson was coming off a stretch during which he was named Big East Defender of the Week, and Paulus was named to the national team of the week by College Soccer News on Sept. 11.

“Both those guys are the heart and soul of this team,” Embick said. “They’re Akron people. They grew up watching us and chose us over other very good options.

“You can see how they play day in and day out. It means a lot to them and for us. Who wouldn't want to have leaders who are guys that just bleed the Akron blue and gold. We're very fortunate. They're very talented players.”

Jackson has six career game-winning goals, including one against Niagara this season.

Paulus has assisted on three game-winning goals and is second in scoring with three goals and two assists.

“They’re guys who always help out the team and do what's in the best interest of the team,” Shokalook said. “They always go out and lead by example. They show us what we need to be able to do. They help us with everything that we need.”

The best thing for fans is that Jackson and Paulus still have a lot left before their senior season runs out.

“Being a captain with Will Jackson is one of my most favorite things that's ever happened,” Paulus said. “He’s been my best friend for a very long time. We went through a lot of stuff together, so we're just trying to do the best we can every day.”

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Akron Zips soccer: Local standouts captain team to unbeaten start