Soccer Players Juggle Between Travel Teams and School Ball

By: Emma Jenan

Balancing between sports and education can be hard, but imagine being on an elite travel team, plus school on top of that. Sounds difficult right? Well, these girls have it figured out. 

Nichole Rodriguez, ‘22, is a member of the South Valley United, and she loves it. Rodriguez says, “It’s like having twenty-two sisters! My girls make me feel like we’re a family.”

She goes on to say that, “Being able to travel and learn not only team-building skills but leadership, which makes us all stronger and prepared for life off the field.” The team has not only made Nichole better at soccer, but it has given her life lessons she will use throughout her life. 

Gaby Andradi, ‘23, shares the same beliefs about the importance of the team and gives us a view on how balancing school and soccer can be.

Andradi says, “At times it does get pretty stressful because you are dedicating a lot of your time to game days and practice. You really have to balance out school, soccer, friends, and still leave time for family.” Although it can be very stressful at times, Andradi still agrees that. Being a part of a travel team is super fun, and it feels like you have a family around you.” 

Mckenna Cook, ‘22, has been playing soccer since she was seven years old, and is now a member of South Valley United. Cook loves being a part of the travel team, even with all the work it requires.

Cook says, ”Being a part of a travel soccer team is a great feeling, you get to develop bonds with people that you would not have met otherwise.” She goes on to say, ”I have been playing soccer with the same team for a while now, and I feel like every player is my best friend.” 

Even though being a part of a travel team can be stressful at times, these players believe that there are so many benefits that come from the experience.

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