Eli Navarro: The one who controls the game
Manteca High Junior Eli Navarro
By LIAM VENEGAS
The Tower
Soccer is a beautiful sport. It is a mindset, and a way of expressing yourself on the pitch. In a way soccer is life itself; it brings new players, new goals, new records, and memories that last forever. Soccer is a sport that everyone can unite with and share a passion. It is a dream of many people to make it and finally be able to prove themselves.
I decided to talk to someone about this and met Eli Navarro. He is a soccer player for our Varsity team. He seemed like he would know how soccer must be played, as he also is the midfielder, and they seem to have control of the game. We began talking and it started to really show how much soccer was.
The Tower: What’s it like on the pitch?
Eli Navarro: Well, it’s like you see everything and I kind of see myself as the quarterback of the soccer team, and like since I'm a midfielder, I have the most control.
TT: Well that seems interesting, how many years have you been playing for?
EN: Like in general, or competitive?
TT: Eh, both sound good, sure say both.
EN: Well I have been playing for 12 years, but competitively for 6 years.
TT: Interesting, what other teams do you play for?
EN: I play for the Manteca Football Club UPSL Academy?
TT: Wow that’s impressive, do they lead to professional academies?
EN: Well I would think so, yes, they could potentially lead to that level.
TT: What challenges do you face in soccer the most?
EN: Well soccer is like a mental challenge, coming to practice every week and meeting Burns expectations, maybe my defense, I could work on it a bit better.
TT: Wow alright, um what things would you like to improve?
EN: Well I would like to improve my defense mostly, and maybe my speed to help with my position.
TT: How would you describe this sport to yourself?
EN: I describe it as a beautiful game, it's so beautiful to watch and play.
TT: I agree, it truly is a beautiful game. Who inspires you or inspired you to play soccer?
EN: Well my cousins, and my cousin who used to play for the seals, that’s in the bay did, and I remember playing soccer with them and feeling a bond with me and the ball.
TT: Sheesh, I’m surprised to hear that, like damn that’s crazy. Lastly, what would you have to say to people who need motivation?
EN: Take it into account, play it one step at a time, and don’t overthink it, start with the love for the sport, and see where it takes you.