By Joe’laya Stiger and Emily Rosales

At four years old, sophomore Jose Moreno knew that he wanted to make a career out of soccer. 

Moreno began his soccer career when he played his first match and scored a goal. 

“I played at GCA. I remember feeling excited to play my first match. When I played my second match, I ended up scoring a goal. I felt extremely happy that I was able to achieve my dream of scoring my first goal. I like to think if I were to experience starting again I would do things differently. I would practice more and take care of my body,” Moreno said

Moreno had many role models, including his parents and coach. 

“I’d say my biggest role models when it comes to playing soccer are Neymar Jr, Ronaldinho Gaucho, and Messi. I really like their playing style, and I often found myself looking at them when they would play. They were exciting to watch, and I liked their skills. I would also say that my parents and coach play a good role in my career. They gave me confidence, and I’m grateful for that,” Moreno said

Although sophomore Warren Ngo was young, he knew that he was ready to do anything to accomplish his dream of becoming a soccer player. Ngo’s passion began once he had started to watch soccer. 

“I watched a lot of soccer growing up, and I think that’s when I really began to have a passion for the sport. When I first started in the third grade, I just knew that soccer was going to be my sport. I remember my first assist in the third grade, and since then, that has really stuck with me,’ Ngo said

Ngo had one role model.

“Ever since I was little, only one player really stuck out to me, and that was Son Heung-min. He was a really good player, and I wanted to be just like him. I would analyze his moves a lot. I think because of him I was able to become a good player,” Ngo said

Freshman Millie Fiesel was not sure about soccer until she finally played

“I was really nervous my first match since I had little experience playing soccer, but even though I was nervous, I pulled through and was able to get through the match,” Fiesel said

Fiesel’s mom was able to help her become a better player and gain confidence

“My mom is a big role model for me when it comes to playing. She has helped me gain confidence. Whenever I felt nervous for a match, she had always been there for me,” Fiesel said