By Marilyn R, Staff writer
From a young age, Junior spent countless hours practicing and honing his skills. From waking up early to go practice in the field, to going with his sister to her matches and helping her warm up, any opportunity he had to practice or do anything soccer related he would make the most of. Soccer has been a central aspect of his life, teaching him valuable lessons in teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. The hard work has already started to pay off as UC Berkeley has already shown interest in Junior to play for them once he’s done with high school.
Named co-captain of his club soccer team for four years in a row while jumping up the ranks quickly from D3 all the way to D1 in just under a year, freshman Junior V, has shown the skills, combined with his passion for the game, to hopefully one day play soccer for one of his favorite teams, team USA or Paris Saint-Germain F.C.
As he grew up, his love for soccer only intensified. He joined the school soccer team as soon as he could and quickly both in middle school and high school. For him, playing soccer wasn’t just about winning games, it was about being part of a team and building lasting friendships.
“Junior has been a day one and i’ve seen him grow from someone who didn’t know how to kick a ball for the life of him into someone leading his team into victory, that man has a good future ahead of him”-Juan D, one of Junior V’s friend they have been on the same team together since they were seven.
Through the season he made six aperrances three goals and as well as four assists
He knew his dedication and hard work paid off when he won his first State cup (best team in the state) for his age group and division, with his soccer club, SF Elite Academy, while being co-captain as well. This was a significant achievement for him, and he felt honored to lead his team to victory.
“We went into penalties at the state cup game as it was coming to be my turn with each kick of the ball. I heard my heart start to pound more and more when it came to my turn. I felt my knees go weak. Running up to the ball I felt like fainting when I felt the ball leave my foot and closed my eyes and then heard cheering. That moment was one of the few that i felt like the world revolved around me that I am great”-Junior
When asked about his goals for the future, he replied, “I want to continue to grow both as a player and as a team player. I hope to one day play soccer at the collegiate level and eventually become a professional soccer player.”
His story is one of perseverance, dedication, and passion for the sport of soccer. He is an inspiration to anyone who has ever had a passion and worked hard to achieve their goals. As he continues to put in the work and effort for a sport he loves, there is no doubt that he has a bright future ahead of him both on and off the soccer field.
