Seniors Maggie Morrow and Christy Chipman are passing the soccer ball from one to another during a game. Photo by: Elsy Mendoza

By Michaela Moreno

Running, kicking, scoring, and cheering.  A basic formula that could sum up soccer for those unfamiliar with the lifestyle of a soccer player. For a soccer player though, it is much more than four words.

There is a lot pressure to being a soccer player. They have their school, coach, and teammates all counting on them. Not only that, but an entire audience watching them in the process. Junior Elsy Mendoza said, “In the beginning I did get nervous, but now I am used to it. I do get a little nervous when we play against our rival or a hard team.” Sophomore Elizabeth Huerta felt differently. Huerta said, “Not really because you’re not doing it for you. You are doing it for your school.”

A soccer player’s motivation is what helps them get past the pressure. For instance, Junior Armando Diaz said, ”I play to have fun, be active, and do what I love.” His passion for what he loves most helped him overcome the pressure. Other players have family members who encouraged them. Freshman Rebeca Lee said, ”My step dad, who is now our girls Varsity coach, Chuck DeWitt, had his sons in soccer when they went through high school. I believe the motivation was to someday be as good as one of his sons, Andy DeWitt, or just be able to make my step dad proud.”

Seeing their teammates at school and on the field is bound to create a bond among the players. Having gone through so many obstacles together such as summer conditioning, another 20 sit-ups, and going up against their greatest rival on the field. Freshman Clay Marshall said, ”Yes, it is a team effort that wins a game. When we step on that field we become an unbreakable brotherhood.”

There is more to a soccer player than just the athleticism. These players have the motivation, the passion and the bond that makes them one. A team, who are there together to win.