My name is Emily and I grew up in the Bronx. I was raised in an Ecuadorian household with my mom and three siblings. Growing up, I was introduced to many different sports. I loved to be active, but soccer didn’t play a role in my life until I entered high school. The summer before starting high school, I had spine surgery, which limited my ability to walk, move and play sports. For six months I was on my road to recovery, but that time opened me to the doors of soccer and I decided to join the soccer team. It was something new for me to learn, but I was eager. Every practice encouraged me to keep playing. For the past three years, I actively involve myself in playing soccer. My hard work and determination led me to becoming captain of my team this year. Being captain held many responsibilities, but it made me realize how much of an influence I could be on my team members. I wanted to become a better player, so I started searching for a place to play.
I was introduced to the Saturday Night Lights program by one of the coach’s younger brother. When I first came to the program, I was a little intimidated. Being the only girl is different, but in a good way. I loved the coaches and the practices. I encouraged my friends to join as well. I have been attending Saturday Night Lights since the summer. Because of this program, I gained the skill and confidence to be a better player. It derived a player with leadership and hope. Everything I learned, I took to the fields and also tried to emulate the practice sessions for my soccer practices. Everything I learned I wanted to teach and show my girls the skills and teamwork needed. My coaches recognized my devotion and offered me the opportunity to become an assistant coach for the Lexington Academy in the fall.
I started coaching in mid-September. My first day, I walked to 104th and Lexington Ave. to meet my soccer boys, girls and coaches. We would wait until 3:30 p.m. every session and guide the children to Randall’s Island to prepare for the practice sessions. Our practices focus on developing the children’s skill level, but in order to do that we must teach them the basics first. Many of the players’ dedication and enthusiasm impressed me. Here we instruct discipline, responsibility, teamwork and patience. Our goal isn’t only to nurture soccer players, but to sharpen the characters of each player as well. The knowledge we offer is to be used on and off the field. Having this program available allows kids to have fun, play with their friends and grow as a team. I enjoyed being a part of the community and am grateful for the opportunity. These two months with the team have been an incredible experience.
Kids everyday face challenges. Especially at a young age, kids are easily susceptible to outside influences. The kids I coach have both boys and girls, but sometimes girls are not credited enough for their abilities. Personally, I have faced the same issue because genders learn differently and focus on specific fields. Boys tend to lean towards the skill/trick style of learning, while girls lean towards techniques. Another issue they all face is trying to fit in. But despite the issues, they continue to strive together as a team and they are slowly learning to overcome these differences. I see how important soccer is for the kids. We all hold a strong passion for the sport. Soccer is definitely a major influence to the players.
Soccer is not just a sport. It is a passion many of the community members hold, especially me. Through soccer, we are able to teach players to build stronger characters. They are becoming confident, responsible, patient and determined. They incorporate teamwork, and they take initiative. Soccer also allowed the kids to engage in a healthier lifestyle. Soccer teaches respect, motivation and develops stronger ambitious players. We also teach balance and patience. These qualities are essential to illustrate because it helps them with their daily lives and can be incorporated in their schoolwork. The goal for the soccer program is to ensure players on becoming influential leaders for the future generations both in school and on the field. It is always going to be a learning experience.
I love my soccer players and I enjoy learning about them. I actively engage in conversations and attempt to make the kids laugh from time to time. I believe that when you listen to the kids, they listen to you more. It sets a positive environment for the kids.
