I remember like it was yesterday…
One of my friends’ dad asked if I wanted to play soccer. With limited English, I said, “Yes, no money.”
He said, “How about if I give you shin guards, cleats and a soccer ball. Would you play then?”
With excitement I said, “Yes!” Thank you, Joe!
I was 11 years old when I fell in love with soccer! It was my way of coping with life and way of life. I became really good at soccer. I made the travel team and played in college. Soccer taught me teamwork, self-esteem, discipline and many more life skills. I love it so much that I decided to share with the world and give back.
As a Peace Corps Volunteer, I started the first girls and boys soccer team in my host village with a focus on girls’ rights. Our first game brought the community together. Little I known, years later it became a soccer league in the area!
I am grateful for all of the coaches that made an impacted in my life and the soccer moms who had made it possible where I could be a part of the team despite the fact that I didn’t have money. Soccer changed my world. Life is beautiful. Pass it on…
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