For many years, soccer has been a passion of mine. From the age of four, I attended two practices a week as well as one game on Saturday. Through out this time I have developed friends that have become family and coaches who have become a fundamental part in shaping who I am. As a senior in high school, the realization that the end is near honestly blind sided me. The one thing I looked forward to every Monday and Thursday night was slowly disappearing.

As most soccer players know, you will get to a point where you despise the sport you once loved. However, that yearning to quit will quickly fade when you realize that it's so close to the end. With that being said, I think it's also fair to say that we envy those younger than us who get to play just one more year.

One of the biggest reasons I have grown to love this sport is because of my coaches and teammates. Here I found out it's okay to be yourself and it's okay to push your limits (just not too far.) I also learned that there will always be someone to call when in need. Over the course of nine years, my coach has become somewhat of a second father to me. Showing me right from wrong, leading me towards Christ and helping me up when I can't get up on my own (figuratively and literally speaking.)

I have learned the importance of discipline and self control in many different ways. I have learned how to work with others and help them along the way and admit when I need help. Soccer had been my biggest outlet for anger, sadness and even joy. It has shown me the need to be the best person I can be even when revenge sounds so glorious. All in all, soccer has taught me what it means to be independent while still being dependent. And for that specific reason, soccer will always be my "lifestyle." As for those younger than I, enjoy it while you can, because one day, you might not be able to anymore.