Personal Statement
Oh, Soccer!
I was a little like 6 when I fell in love with soccer; the connection happened so quickly. At that age, I’d cling beside my dad, equally a soccer enthusiast, in the living room, and on the old CRT TV, we’d watched professional soccer. I marveled at the players' ability to collect, control, and manipulate the ball with both feet, legs, chest, and even their heads. The way they move the ball in different directions at varying speeds and yet with the ball in full control. On many occasions, I’d thrown a chunk of questions at my dad ‘Why can the goalkeeper grab the ball in his hands? Why should there be linesmen? What role is the captain? And do you think the coach of the teams can play like the players?’ My dad had given me answers but only after the game.
Then not long after, my dad got me my personal football and soccer boots. That day, I was like a demigod amongst the little boys within my vicinity. I was in charge of the selection, coaching, and captaining and even I determined how the ball was kicked. You won’t understand. It was like finally living your dreams. I hated the nights because I had to sleep alone while my football lingers around all by itself.
As I grew, my love for the game which to me is more than just a sport also grew. Week in and week out, whether during school lunch breaks or hangout sessions with friends, my eagerness to dribble the ball at my feet remained constant. I discovered the colossal power of unity and the sheer joy of playing a game that transcends borders and race. The ability of soccer to bring people from diverse backgrounds together, caring less about where you come from or what language you speak. With Soccer, all that matters is your passion for the game.
As the years have gone by, I’ve learned that the soccer field is not just a place where I chase a ball; it’s where I learn about impartiality, teamwork, diversity, discipline, and leadership. Whether it’s pushing through exhausting training sessions or striving to improve my skills, I’ve learned that success in soccer, as in life, requires dedication and resilience. I have learned the value of hard work. As a striker, I’ve learned that I require incredible technicality, diversity, and a natural goal-scoring trait, and hence the need to work persistently to acquire and perfect those traits. Not only do I play as a striker, but I can play as a winger on either side of the soccer field. I’ve grown to realize also that soccer isn’t just about the physical aspect; it’s also a mental game. The endless hours spent practicing shooting, dribbling, and perfecting my scoring techniques have instilled in me a sense of determination and a willingness to put in the effort required to achieve my goals. These qualities have spilled over into other aspects of my life, whether excelling in my academic pursuits or volunteering in my community.
And I admit in all confidence that my passion for soccer has led me to dream big, and transitioning from the perimeters of college soccer to the highest, and a more competitive professional league would be a dream come true. As I aspire to combine my love for the game with my academic and career pursuits and to give back to the community, it’s my desire to make positive contributions in the world of soccer whether through donations, funding local sports academies, or constructing community soccer fields, in whichever way, I see the many ways I can impact lives and touch the world through Soccer together with my academics.
