You may think that soccer is just a game where you kick the ball and try to score a goal. However, there is so much more to soccer. There needs to be skills, communication, and a connection between the players. All you really need is a soccer ball; it’s that easy. I would recommend playing soccer because of the interesting tactics used and the bonds with teammates you will make along the way.
I find it fascinating that one simple play can change the whole dynamic of the game. For instance, if a goal is scored early on in the game, usually that team is more confident and will perform better. It doesn’t even have to be a goal; it could be a player demolishing the other players with their skills. Sometimes this isn’t even the case; a team could be losing in the first half and start scoring in the second half. This has happened to me before. My team was losing 1-0 at the beginning of the game, and by half, we tied it. In the second half, we were able to score two more goals and win the game. This is what I love about soccer, the unknown of who would win in an even match-up. That is why you should try it, because you never know the outcome of a game. You could be having a really good game and giving it your all, or have a really bad game and just be off.
You should join soccer because of the new experiences and people you will meet along the way. I was introduced to soccer four years ago because it was a sport my brother wanted to play. I didn’t want anything to do with it, but my parents forced me to join the girls’ team. At first, I hated it, mainly because I wasn’t good at soccer at all. It took me about a year and a half until I finally felt that I was good enough to start on the field. My teammates and I always motivated each other, making sure we were comfortable going into the game. Playing soccer has allowed me to make new connections with people. I am constantly talking to my teammates here in Chicago outside of soccer. I also talk to my friends in Houston, that I met in Paris for a soccer tournament. Not only was I able to make new friends because of soccer, but I was also able to go to Paris to play soccer and try new things. I loved this experience and would do anything to go back and do it all over again. This is why you should try soccer because of the many long-lasting opportunities that it can give to you in life.
In conclusion, playing soccer will be tough at first, but the more you get comfortable with the people you’re playing with, the more it can be something to look forward to. Playing soccer has changed my life and opened me up to new experiences that I will be forever grateful for. Soccer has changed my life, and I recommend it to you for new opportunities and connections.
Isabella Padilla – De La Salle Institute – DMSF Class of 2029
Photo Credit: Melinda Nagy – Adobe Stock