University of North Carolina Ashville Athletics
10.23.2026 | Men's Soccer
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – From the soccer fields of England to the mountains of Western North Carolina, UNC Asheville Men's Soccer senior Charlie Wood has spent much of his life pursuing his passion for the game.
A native of Addingham, England, Wood's soccer journey began at just five years old when his father first introduced him to the sport. Since then, soccer has remained a constant in his life, eventually leading him across the Atlantic to continue his athletic and academic career at UNC Asheville.
Now in his third year with the Bulldogs, Wood is a senior Health Sciences major who has spent much of his playing career in the midfield. While he experimented with playing on the wing during his younger years, central midfield has remained his primary position.
For Wood, the decision to attend UNC Asheville came down to the environment created by the coaching staff, the level of competition and the opportunity to experience life in Western North Carolina.
Beyond the soccer field, Wood has another athletic passion: golf. A single-digit handicapper, Wood enjoys spending his free time on the course and would happily trade a weekend away from soccer for a golf trip near the beach.
Get to know more about Wood, from his favorite soccer memories and future aspirations to the British traditions he's brought with him to Asheville.
Getting to Know Charlie
How did you first get started playing soccer?
"My dad took me to play when I was five."
Did you always know you wanted to play in the midfield?
"I played a little on the wing when I was younger, but mainly in midfield."
What made UNC Asheville the right place for you to continue your academic and athletic career?
"The environment the coaches made, the level of sport and the area itself."
What has been your favorite memory throughout your soccer career?
"Winning the league at U19s back home."
What has been your favorite class at UNC Asheville?
"Nutrition class, as I'm passionate about nutrition."
What are your plans following graduation?
"I want to try to continue playing at a high level."
What's something people might not know about you outside of soccer?
"I'm a single-figure handicapper in golf."
What's something unique from your hometown that you've introduced to your teammates in Asheville?
"Bringing beans on toast to Asheville."
If you had an entire weekend off from soccer, how would you spend it?
"I would go on a weekend golfing trip near the beach."
Quick Hits with Charlie
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Favorite athlete: Luka Modrić
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Favorite phone app: Strava
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Go-to road trip snack: Caramel rice cakes
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Favorite reality show: Love Island UK
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Comfort show: Benidorm
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Favorite musical artist: Luke Bryan
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Go-to motivational quote: "Sometimes success means being the first to fail."
