Who influenced you to play soccer? How?

Discovering Soccer: A Childhood Revelation

My journey with soccer began in my childhood. I was just a small boy when I first saw a group of children kicking a ball around in a nearby field. They were laughing, shouting, and seemed to be having a lot of fun. I remember feeling the urge, a compelling curiosity, to join them and find out what was so fascinating about this game. That's how I was introduced to soccer, and it immediately captivated me. Little did I know, this seemingly simple game was going to have such a profound influence on my life.

My Brother: The First Inspiration

My elder brother was the first person who truly influenced my passion for soccer. He was a local star in his high school soccer team and I always looked up to him. His skills, determination, and most importantly, his love for the game, inspired me. I would often accompany him to his practices and games, watching him from the sidelines, learning, and absorbing every move he made on the field. It was through him that I learned the basics of the game, and more importantly, the spirit of the game.

The Influence of My Coach

Another influential figure in my soccer journey was my coach, Mr. Smith. He was not just a coach, but a mentor, a guide, and a friend. He would spend hours teaching me the nuances of the game, the strategies, the skills, and the discipline required to play soccer. His dedication and passion for the game were infectious. It was under his guidance that I honed my skills and developed a deeper understanding of the game. His belief in me boosted my confidence and encouraged me to strive for excellence.

Idols in Professional Soccer

As I delved deeper into the world of soccer, I started following professional soccer leagues. I was in awe of the finesse and mastery of the players. Soccer stars like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and David Beckham became my idols. I would watch their games, study their moves, and try to emulate them on the field. Their dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship greatly influenced me and shaped my approach towards the game.

Inspiration from Soccer Movies and Books

Besides real-life personalities, soccer-themed movies and books also played a significant role in influencing my love for the game. Movies like "Bend it Like Beckham", "Goal!" and books like "Fever Pitch" and "Inverting the Pyramid" gave me a deeper insight into the game. They highlighted the struggles, triumphs, and emotions associated with soccer, making me feel more connected to the game.

The Influence of Soccer Culture

The culture surrounding soccer also had a profound influence on me. The enthusiasm and passion of the fans, the excitement of the tournaments, the camaraderie shared by the players, all added to my fascination for the game. The chants, the cheers, the adrenaline rush - everything about soccer culture was captivating. It made me realize that soccer was more than just a game, it was a way of life.

The Role of Friends and Peers

Lastly, I cannot overlook the role my friends and peers played in influencing my love for soccer. Playing soccer with my friends in the backyard, in the park, or during school breaks, was always a fun and exciting experience. Their passion and enthusiasm for the game were contagious. We would spend hours discussing the latest games, sharing our favorite moves, and even organizing our own mini tournaments. They played a pivotal role in fuelling my interest in soccer.

How Soccer Shaped Me

Looking back, I can clearly see how all these influences shaped my love for soccer. They not only helped me develop my skills and understanding of the game, but also instilled in me values like teamwork, dedication, discipline, and sportsmanship. Soccer has been more than just a game for me, it's been a journey, a passion, and a significant part of my life. These influences have played a vital role in making me the person I am today, and for that, I am eternally grateful.