Joshua

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

My favorite part of soccer is being in the goal. I love diving, punching and jumping to stop shots. I don't mind the getting dirty part either. When the ball hits my gloves and it stays there or when I punch it away, or when get to slide and kick it away from a striker and OUT of "MY BOX" my heart races and at that point I feel I can do anything. That moment is the best feeling ever!

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

I really admire Unai Simon, the Spanish goalkeeper. He plays for Athletic Bilbao and the national team, and his performances are awesome to watch and learn from. I love how calm and focused he stays under pressure, making difficult saves look easy. His quick reflexes and confidence inspire me to work harder in goal. Watching him makes me want to become a stronger, faster, braver goalie myself. Simon shows what true skill, passion and confidence look like when used together. He is just AWESOME!

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

What makes me the proudest as a Goalie Mom is watching my son dive fearlessly to make a save. His courage, the way he throws his body into the play without hesitation, to make that big save. It fills my heart with joy and makes me a nervous wreck at the same time. Strangely, I am the proudest of how he is when he misses a goal, he shakes it off and stays confident and continues to lead. That resilience and heart are what I admire most and is what will carry him the farthest in this world.