USLsoccer.com –How was the level of competition at the SYL ODP Camps?
Mizell – Better every year- I know sometimes players are cautious with new camps –But this has been great for me. The speed, skill and physical play during the games were definitely at another level. As a keeper, I had to move-talk and be on top of my game every minute. But I love that.

USLsoccer.com –What was your reaction when you learned you were selected to attend the West Ham trip?
Mizell – I was super excited. To be chosen from a group of elite players from our camp is a great honor. I can’t wait to get over there and practice on their pitch.

USLsoccer.com – What technical/tactical skills did you pick up during the SYL ODP Camp?
Mizell – The speed of play technically helps me more than anything. The coaches pushed us to play fast and to be able to react to the speed and constant pressure and make the sound decisions we keepers have to make. The coaches did a good job with us on this. Second [was] conditioning. You must stay in top condition to compete at the top levels and the coaches stressed everything. You have to condition yourself, eat the right foods, drink plenty of fluids and get the needed amount of rest.

USLsoccer.com – Who were your favorite/most influential coaches growing up?
Mizell – I have had many coaches and all have been pretty good. I guess if I had to pick Drew Keeshen has been the most influential coach to me. He helped me get to the next level on and off the field. He has trained me for many years and demanded I always work hard at every practice. I admire him because he has always treated me as a friend, coming to my games, incorporating conditioning, speed and timing drills in what we do and talking me through the rough times.

USLsoccer.com –What are your expectations heading to West Ham (players/facilities/coaches/culture)? 
Mizell – I can’t wait to meet the players and coaches. Their mental attitude towards this sport is top. I know they have one of, if not the best academy programs in Europe. It is all business and everything is managed professionally. I love the English culture and their love for soccer. Look forward to visiting their facilities and seeing what all goes on [and] off the pitch as well.

USLsoccer.com – What unique advantage does an American player have that will give him a competitive edge when competing against the players in the West Ham Academy? 
Mizell – USA has turned out some of the best keepers in the world. Brad Friedel, Tim Howard and Kasey Keller are just a few of the keepers over there. It’s hard to get over the hurdle and play in [other] countries, but many Americans have done it. Jonathan Spector is playing with West Ham now and doing very well. I am sure he would be the first to tell you of the hard work he has done to get where he is. I feel that Americans want to win, and we seem to have that determination to be the best we can.

USLsoccer.com – What do you know about United Soccer Leagues?
Mizell – I know USL has been around for over 20 years and it is made up of many divisions from the First Division down to the Super-Y League. I also know it has given many players that might have fallen through the cracks a second and sometimes a first chance to prove their skills as a soccer player at the elite level. Most of all I know they are giving me a chance to play and train at West Ham and for this I am very thankful.