Standing guard as goalkeeper
Sport: Fanshawe Men's Soccer, goalkeeper
Age: 19
Field of study: Recreation and Leisure Services
How long have you been playing Soccer?
I started taking it seriously in grade seven. My parents got me involved in it at four or five-years-old.
What influenced you to play?
I've always been competitive and I've always been healthy. Soccer is a trooper sport, and a lot easier to play.
What's your motivation?
My mom. She comes to every game. She drives behind the bus.
What's your schedule like?
I do my best to wake up for every practice. I also play for a club team back in the city. We kind of get to plan our own schedules. I am very time conscious.
Have you had any injuries?
I broke my jaw at the end of July at practice. My surgery was the first of August. I couldn't play outdoor soccer. The injury set me back two-and-a-half months.
Favourite thing about soccer?
For me, it's the leadership. Like any sport, there's a certain position for everyone. I'm a goalkeeper.
How do you handle losing?
I get frustrated. Sometimes I could stop them (the balls). It's winning as a team and losing as a team. It's a team effort. My mom makes me feel better.
Best memory?
Our first tournament in Kitchener and the friendships that were formed. A lot of the players play on my club team, (Marconi, an Italian team).
Do you have a special diet?
My mom cooks healthy. Everybody in my family eats healthy.
Worst thing about soccer?
You have your highs and lows. When things aren't good, the guys don't talk to you. At this level, guys are respectable enough to know that its not just one person.
Do you have a lot of support?
Coach Paul gives a lot of support. He won Coach of the Year. He's a good influence. Nobody else really pushes me I push myself because I have a desire to play at a higher level.
Do you ever feel like quitting?
Never had the feeling. I've always had a passion for soccer. I'm not the one to think negatively.
Play any other sports?
I played football in high school and during the summer. During the winter, I swim. I haven't been able to this winter because I've been running and conditioning.
What are your future plans?
I want to work for a high school, or in the community to help develop youth and help achieve their goals. I plan on continuing to play soccer. I'll continue here until my program ends, three years max, and I'll continue to play for the city.
Our communication is clear. Others, you may have set plays, but in soccer sometimes you have to push your own plays.
