Numerous people find passion in playing sports. My passion lies in the sport of soccer. According to Dictionary.com, soccer is defined as a ‘form of football played between two teams of 11 players, in which the ball may be advanced by kicking or by bouncing it off any part of the body, but the arms and hands, except in the case of the goalkeepers, who may use their hands to catch, carry, throw, or stop the ball.’[1] Soccer is played around the world. It is ranked the number one played sport in the world. There are many aspects to the game of soccer. As many other sports do, soccer takes skill and perseverance.  Soccer is about the challenge and accomplishments. The competition, exercise and friendship are what makes me strive for the thrill of the game.

In soccer the competition is strong; of two teams one must win. The competition is what I enjoy the most. I feel the rush of adrenalin shoot through me as I carry the ball down the field, manoeuvring back and forth, trying to make my way to the net. The challenges of the opposing players I approach throughout the game are what motivates me to become better. The pressure is on every step along the way.

Exercise is a benefit gained from soccer, as I am constantly running up and down the field. Not only do I enjoy the sport but I’m getting a great workout along the way as an added bonus. In the game of soccer I never stop moving. It’s a game of endurance.  I am either sprinting to beat another player to the ball or jogging to catch up to the play. Therefore, not only do I get a great cardiovascular workout, but I am also increasing my speed, agility and flexibility. Soccer does not only give me a physical workout but a mental workout as well. It is constantly a mental challenge to be prepared for the next move. I don’t know what the player approaching me will be thinking; I must be physically and mentally prepared for any action.

Another thing that makes me passionate about soccer is the friendships I make. Throughout the soccer season I grow with my team, not only the players, but the coaches as well. Over the years my teammates may become my opponents on the field, but off the field your friendships blossom.  I not only play soccer with my teammates but I begin to bond with friends who are like an extended family.

Bobby Charlton, a key member of England’s 1966 World Cup team said, “Some people tell me that we professional players are soccer slaves. Well, if this is slavery, give me a life sentence.”[2] Passion is key. Why do I find passion in soccer? The competition is what drives me, the exercise is what takes me one step farther in every game and the friendships are what encourages me to play to win. To me soccer is not just another sport, it’s my passion.