Noah Geiser is finally feeling like himself again.

After months of physical therapy, setbacks, and soul-searching, the Jim Thorpe graduate has been cleared to return to the sport he loves. And just in time — because later this month, he’s headed back to France with the chance to take his career to the next level.

Geiser will depart July 20 for a two-week soccer trial in southern France, where he’ll train and compete in front of clubs seeking new talent. It’s his second such trip, but this time, he’s going into it healthier — and hungrier.

“Last time I went, I was dealing with tendonitis the entire time,” said Geiser. “It was tough mentally because I just couldn’t play to my full potential. But I did well, and it led to this chance to go back.”

The trials are part of a unique program run by an international coach who assembles a roster of global talent to play against professional clubs looking to sign new players. The coach invited Geiser to return after seeing his performance last July — despite the injury.

Originally scheduled to leave in early July, Geiser learned recently that the trip was pushed back to July 20. It was news he welcomed.

“I think that was part of God’s plan,” he said. “I needed more time to get where I need to be. It’s giving me a chance to get my confidence and strength back.”

After receiving PRP injections in March, Geiser spent months recovering and was recently cleared for full activity. He’s now training with PA Prime’s U23 summer program, and working out with Jim Thorpe’s high school team while hitting the weight room and field regularly.

“I lost about 10 pounds while I was injured,” he said. “So now it’s about rebuilding that strength and getting as many touches on the ball as I can. I’m lifting, doing ball work — everything I can to get ready.”

But physical recovery was only half the battle.

“I didn’t think the mental part would be as hard as it’s been,” he admitted. “My first game back was in playoffs, and I just didn’t feel like myself. I lost most of my confidence.”

That vulnerability only makes his determination more compelling. He’s fully aware of the stakes — and the opportunity — that lie ahead.

“I’ve got a chip on my shoulder now,” he said. “I know I’ve got something to prove. Last year, I was out there injured. This year, I want to show who I really am.”

The effects of last summer’s trip were already evident this past fall. Geiser emerged as a leader on a Jim Thorpe squad that made history — capturing the program’s first-ever District 11 title with a thrilling 5-4 overtime win over Southern Lehigh in the Class 3A final, and following it up with its first state playoff victory, a 6-2 triumph over Franklin Towne Charter.

“If you look at our team last season, we might not have had the most skill,” he said. “But we played together. We had character. And I think it all finally came together that final year.”

He credits much of his growth and perspective to that first trip to France — a journey that tested him far beyond the field.

“Being over there by myself gave me time to slow down and figure out who I am,” Geiser said. “It helped me become a leader. I wanted to set an example for other players, especially younger kids who might want to do something with the sport.”

Geiser’s passion for the game grew later than most. Early on, he envisioned a career in the military or studying engineering. It wasn’t until high school — watching and learning from his older brothers, both of whom played at high levels — that he saw a different future for himself.

“My brothers inspired me,” he said. “I just wanted to show them — and myself — that I could do it, too.”

One of his brothers also spent time playing in Europe, an experience that shaped both of them. For Noah, it planted a seed. Now, he’s hoping to take that dream a step further — healthy and confident.

“I know what to expect now,” he said. “It’s a clean slate. Everybody going over is starting from zero. And I just want to go over, do my thing, and give it everything I’ve got. If nothing comes from it, so be it — but I’ll know I gave it my all.”

Faith has played a central role in Geiser’s journey — especially in moments of uncertainty.

“I’m really religious,” he said. “God brought me here, and I know everything is part of His plan — whether it works out the way I want it to or not. Getting more time to prepare, getting healthy again — it’s all happened for a reason.”

No matter what the outcome is in France, Geiser knows he’s already won in a way — by pushing through adversity, by continuing to believe, and by choosing to bet on himself.

“They’re going to get the best version of me this time,” he said. “And I’m just excited to see where that takes me.”

This time, Geiser won’t be playing through pain. He’ll be chasing possibility — healthy, grounded, and ready to show the world the player he truly is.