I discovered my passion for soccer at the young age of four. My dad loved the thrilling sport and passed down his enthusiasm to me. He supports Liverpool and tried to get me to respect the team as well. However, I chose my route and started admiring Manchester City. I soon joined a local team and trained rigorously every day. I became known for my skills as a right-winger and my powerful left foot. I was kind and respectful to all of my coaches and teammates during every practice. I even scored six goals during a game in sixth grade. From then on, soccer became a part of who I was as a person.
The sport has also taught me many life skills. These include patience, which allows me to stay calm in tough situations, leadership, which assists me in giving others guidance, and awareness, which helps me to understand myself, others, and the surroundings I’m in. For example, on the pitch, I show patience by showing calmness even if my teammates make critical mistakes during the game. In real life, I show patience by waiting for my friends to arrive at a rendezvous to meet. Namely, I express leadership in games by telling my teammates how we need to rush the opposing team or to play more defense. In real-world situations, I take initiative by guiding my peers in projects, team discussions, and group activities. In addition, I show awareness on the soccer field by observing my surroundings and making sure I understand the game and the pace at which it’s moving. In real life, I observe my surroundings and make sure I am able to comprehend a situation. Soccer has taught me all of these skills, which I use in my daily life. Soccer has also tremendously strengthened me physically and mentally. At the moment, I’m fast and strong while also being mentally fit, which allows me to control my actions, behavior, and emotions.
Now you’re probably wondering, what does my experience have to do with you? Well, if I could achieve all of these life skills, including patience, leadership, self-awareness, as well as many other qualities, YOU CAN TOO! You don’t have to sign up for a team right away if you want to get started. You can practice by watching tutorials on how to play soccer, getting coached, finding out what position feels most comfortable to you, and overall gaining an idea of playing the sport. You don’t have to sign up for a team right away if you want to get started. If you don’t want to play for a team, there are always pickup games or activities that are usually played with a group of people without an organization. If you don’t feel comfortable engaging with others you don’t know, there are always family members or friends who can assist you while practicing. Playing with loved ones can be highly enjoyable.
Overall, soccer is a fun sport that strengthens your mental and physical capacity if played consistently. While possessing honorable qualities like patience, kindness, leadership, and awareness of surroundings, it also enhances your ability to act positively. All you need is a ball, a pair of shoes, and dedication. Now pick up a soccer ball and get started with your journey!
Kidus Afeworki – Loyola Academy – DMSF Class of 2029
Photo Credit: Fancy Crave – Unsplash