I grew up in a diverse community and my first soccer team had lots of players who were refugees and new to this country. From my experiences and friendships with these players, I learned that soccer is more than a game and that this sport transcends cultures and nationalities. Though I no longer play on this team of refugees, I stay connected to our refugee community by volunteering with Corner 65, a program that connects newcomers in our community through soccer.
These experiences are embedded in who I am as a player. I take nothing for granted and appreciate every moment I spend on the pitch. These relationships enable me to become a better teammate and leader, relishing the wins and learning from the losses. However, I also have realized that it is the training that builds culture, relationships, and the habits needed to succeed in game conditions.
My goal is to contribute to a collegiate soccer program that is competitive, values academics, and most importantly, has a diverse and cohesive group of players. I believe that I possess the skill, work ethic, and maturity that will push those around me to become better.