Where Are They Now?

Vince Jajuga, 1988-91

Men's Soccer

As a New England native, former University of Connecticut men’s soccer standout Vince Jajuga grew up playing baseball. After moving to St. Louis in middle school where soccer is more popular, his passion changed leading him to be one of the most successful Huskies in history.

Jajuga, the former Husky soccer player who graduated in 1992, is currently working in the software business for Universal Data Solutions in Charleston, S.C.

Before enrolling at UConn, Jajuga played for New Trier High School in Winnetka, Ill.  After lettering all three years in high school, he became a captain and an All-American his senior year.  His love for the sport and dedication to his team helped lead them to ranking third in the state that year.

When considering colleges, Jajuga was torn between UConn and several other schools.  However after meeting players on the team and watching a game on his recruiting trip, he saw the Huskies soccer team was more than just an “incredible history.”

“I had never seen anything like it,” Jajuga said.  “The game, the fans, and the stadium were all great.”

After starting almost every game in his career, Jajuga was named to the BIG EAST Conference Team once, the All-New England Team twice and the New England Intercollegiate Soccer League (NEISL) All-Star Game three years.

Although these accomplishments are great memories, winning the BIG EAST tournament his sophomore year stands out most to him.

“We beat our rivals Seton Hall,” he said.  “I still can remember the victory lap around the stadium with our trophy.”

After college, Jajuga pursued his soccer career with the professional soccer team Charleston Battery in South Carolina.  Because the team does not pay enough to live off of like most professional teams, they helped Jajuga secure a job, which is currently the job he has today.

Jajuga played for the Battery for five years.  During these five years, he was joined by several other Husky teammates, including David Hoffman and Craig McCully.

“It was a lot of fun and a great experience,” Jajuga said.  “Soccer has helped me grow and succeed in diplomacy and teamwork, which has helped me with my business life.”

For his job at Universal Data Solutions, Jajuga travels to universities across the country to help them with their financial software for the campus.

“It’s always exciting to work with technology these days because of how fast it is changing,” said Jajuga.

Presently, Jajuga still plays on a men’s soccer league with Hoffman and McCully. Along with being active as a soccer player, Jajuga tries to attend and watch Husky games with his former teammates when possible. 

Jajuga currently resides in Charleston County with his wife of six years -- Amy.  They have two children Sheridan, 5, and Charlie, 3.

--Naomi Smith