Soccer is a rival sport that encourages players to push beyond their limits and focus on continuous improvement. Not many sports can make people feel various emotions at the same time. An outstanding varsity player, Casandra Huaracha (11), is motivated to keep launching herself to become a better competitor and shares her soccer story in the process.
“I have been playing soccer since the age of 11 years old. I fell in love with the connection I felt with the other players. My dad is my biggest supporter; he always supported me in any new idea I was interested in. For fun, I decided to try soccer, and he saw talents in me that I didn’t even know I had, and that’s why I admire him.” Huaracha said.
Known for her impressive head shots and dribbling techniques, Huaracha’s talent has permitted the team to score multiple goals and maintain an undefeated record within the district. The team got to experience an incredible adventure competing at the sub-state level.
Huaracha has kicked off many games with remarkable corner head goals, making her shine on the field. Huaracha’s head goal record is 2 in the same game. The crowd went crazy and cheered for her, making her feel proud.
Huaracha is inspired by not only her family but also her coaches and teammates. A second family formed for Huaracha which makes her want to cherish every moment. The soccer family has kept her ambitious and focused throughout the season.
¨This team means everything to me because they are my family, these girls make me feel welcomed, loved, and most importantly, seen. My coach encourages me to never surrender, no matter the circumstance¨ Huaracha said.
Off the field, Huaracha is just as committed. Balancing varsity soccer with work and school time has really molded Huaracha into good self-control. Huaracha also stated that even the times she is not on the field, she always considers and foresees skills that she can master to overcome the position she plays.
¨Soccer has taught me discipline, and learning to manage my time between work, school, and soccer is important to me. School is one of my major priorities, I believe my grades define who I am as a person¨ Huaracha said.
All in all, Huaracha’s resilience through the team’s ups and downs reveals her dedication to the overall sport of soccer and the team as a whole. Huaracha is an example of how their teamwork has outperformed.