"I Can't Imagine My Life Without Soccer"

Hello and welcome! Today, we have a talented U15 girl soccer player with us. Due to privacy reasons, we won't be mentioning any details other than her first name and we also we won't mention her club. Let's dive right into the interview!

Sarah: Hi Megan let's start with why do you play soccer? What inspired you to start playing?

Megan: Thank you for having me! I play soccer because it's a sport that brings me joy and excitement. The feeling of being on the field, competing with my teammates, and scoring goals is incredibly rewarding. I was inspired to start playing soccer when I watched the FIFA Women's World Cup on TV. Seeing the skill, passion, and determination of the female players ignited a fire within me to pursue the sport.

Sarah: That's wonderful to hear! Playing soccer is indeed a great source of joy and inspiration. Now, let's discuss some challenges that girls face in playing soccer. What problems do you think girls encounter when it comes to playing this sport?

Megan: Unfortunately, there are still some challenges that girls face when it comes to playing soccer. One common issue is a lack of resources and opportunities compared to boys. In some areas, girls' teams might not receive the same level of support, funding, or exposure as the boys' teams. There's also the societal misconception that soccer is primarily a "boys' sport," which can lead to fewer girls getting involved. Breaking through these barriers and gaining equal recognition can be a challenge.

Sarah: Thank you for sharing your insights. It's important to address these obstacles and work towards creating more opportunities for girls in soccer. Now, looking ahead, do you intend to continue playing soccer in the future? How do you see your journey in the sport progressing?

Megan: Absolutely! I have a deep love for soccer, and I can't imagine my life without it. I want to continue playing at the highest level possible and improve my skills with each passing day. My goal is to play for my country someday and compete in top-tier leagues. I understand that the path might not always be easy, but I am determined to work hard, overcome any challenges, and pursue my dreams in soccer.

Sarah: That's a fantastic ambition, and your determination will surely propel you forward. Now, looking ahead ten years from now, where do you see yourself in your soccer journey and in life?

Megan In ten years, I envision myself playing soccer professionally and representing my national team in international competitions. I hope to have gained valuable experience by playing in high-level leagues, which will contribute to my growth as a player. Off the field, I aspire to be a role model for younger girls who have dreams of playing soccer. I want to use my platform to inspire and empower others, advocating for equal opportunities and representation for girls in sports.

Sarah: That's a remarkable vision, both in soccer and in making a positive impact off the field. Lastly, are there any other relevant aspects or experiences you would like to share with us?

Megan: One important aspect I'd like to emphasize is the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in soccer. The bonds formed with my teammates have been incredibly meaningful. Soccer has taught me valuable life lessons, such as the importance of communication, trust, and resilience. The friendships and memories created on and off the field are truly special, and I'm grateful for the experiences soccer has provided me.

Sarah: Thank you for your insights so far. Moving on, I'd like to touch upon a couple of important topics. Firstly, body image is a common concern among young athletes. Have you ever experienced any challenges or insecurities related to body image in your soccer journey? If so, how did you overcome them?

Megan: Body image can be a sensitive topic, and I think many girls, including myself, have faced insecurities at some point. In soccer, there may be pressure to have a certain body type or look a certain way. However, I've learned to focus on the strength and capabilities of my body rather than conforming to societal standards. Surrounding myself with positive influences, supportive teammates, and coaches who emphasize performance over appearance has helped me embrace my body and appreciate it for what it can do on the field.

Sarah: That's a healthy perspective to have. It's essential to prioritize performance and self-acceptance over societal expectations. Now, let's discuss another topic that young female athletes often encounter: starting menstruation. Has the onset of your menstrual cycle affected your participation in soccer? How have you managed any challenges that may have arisen?

Megan: Starting menstruation can be a significant change for young athletes, and it did bring some challenges for me. Initially, there was some adjustment required in terms of managing discomfort and ensuring I had the necessary supplies during practices and games. It took a little time to understand how my body might be affected during different phases of my menstrual cycle and to find strategies to deal with any symptoms.

Thankfully, my coaches and teammates have been understanding and supportive throughout the process. Open communication, seeking advice from older female athletes, and having a supportive network have been crucial in managing any challenges that arose.

Sarah: It's great to hear that you've had understanding support from your coaches and teammates. Open communication and seeking advice are valuable tools for navigating such changes. Now, let's shift our focus back to soccer. Are there any female soccer players, either from your country or internationally, who inspire you? If so, who are they, and what qualities do you admire in them?

Megan: Absolutely! There are many female soccer players who inspire me. One player I admire greatly is Megan Rapinoe (below) of the USWNT. She possesses exceptional technical skills, incredible work ethic, and displays great leadership both on and off the field. She has broken barriers, achieved remarkable success, and paved the way for future generations of female soccer players. Her determination and resilience in the face of adversity are qualities I strive to emulate in my own soccer journey.

Sarah: It's wonderful to have role models who inspire and motivate us. Finally, is there anything else you'd like to share about your experiences as a young female soccer player or any advice you have for other girls aspiring to play the sport?

Megan: I would like to encourage other girls to pursue their passion for soccer without hesitation. Don't be discouraged by any obstacles or stereotypes you may face. Surround yourself with a supportive network of teammates, coaches, and mentors who believe in your abilities. Remember to focus on enjoying the game, developing your skills, and embracing the journey rather than solely focusing on outcomes.

Soccer has the power to teach us valuable life lessons, build resilience, and create lifelong friendships. So, embrace the challenges, stay committed, and most importantly, have fun!

Sarah: Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us. It's been a pleasure speaking with you, and we wish you all the best in your soccer journey and in achieving your goals.