Eric

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

My son loves playing soccer because it gives him a break from the world. He says that once he steps onto the field and makes his first pass, his mind enters a different state. He becomes completely focused on the game, the next play, and what is happening in front of him. Soccer gives him something positive to focus on instead of being at home all day. It gives him a sense of purpose, structure, and freedom. When he is on the field, he can forget about else for a while and simply focus.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

My Athlete says I his mother inspires him because she came from hard times but still worked hard to put him on a straight path in life. She has always supported his soccer dreams and never doubted that he could make it, even when he suffered his first injury. Her strength, belief, and support motivate him to keep pushing forward.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

My Athlete says his proudest moment was playing in national qualifiers when his team was down 2–0 late in the match. With the game already in the 80th minute, Eric scored to give his team hope, then scored again just two minutes later. His team ultimately won in a penalty shootout. Eric is proud because they defeated the second-hardest team he had ever faced and never gave up.