Have you ever wondered what playing on an Arlington soccer team is really like? What are the downsides? 

Is the competitiveness ever stressful or difficult? Why would someone want to commit to something that takes up so much of their time and energy every week? To answer these questions, we spoke with two players to get their unique perspectives, opinions, and insightful advice on a topic interesting to many people. Read on to hear what they had to say.

How old were you when you started soccer, and what teams are you currently on?

Charlotte: “I was in kindergarten, and I’m on the Arlington 7th-8th select B team. We have a game every weekend and 2 practices a week, so I’m with my team a lot.

Ariella: I started in 5th grade, and I’m on the Falcons. We have 1 game every weekend, and 2 practices during the week. I play attacking mid.

What drove you to start soccer in the first place?

Charlotte: “My parents thought it would be a good sport for me because it requires skill and teamwork, and it’s one of the most popular sports in Arlington.”

Ariella: “I had a lot of friends doing it, so I thought I’d give it a try, and I immediately really liked it.”

What would you say is the hardest part about playing on a team?

Charlotte: “I would say learning how to communicate with your teammates. Since everyone plays a bit differently, it takes effort to learn your teammates’ different styles of play. But once you really get to know each other, it’s so rewarding.”

Ariella: “One person can’t single-handedly win the game- everyone has to participate and put in the work in their own positions, so if one person isn’t trying their best, the whole team won’t be as good.”

Do you feel a sense of culture/community with your team?

Charlotte: “Yeah, by doing a sport like this you meet a lot of new people over the years, and this is especially good during the transition from elementary to middle and high school, because you already know people through playing with them over the years. Everyone is pretty close, and we all try to do our best to support each other, on and off the field.” 

Ariella: “Yes, I feel like my team is very connected.”

What do you do to stay inspired and continue to work hard?

Charlotte: “Practicing at home is a big part of it, but there’s a mental side to it as well as a physical side. Even when you make a small mistake on the field, it’s easy to feel like your whole team is disappointed in you, and that you’re not good enough. This is why whenever I’m having negative self-thoughts like that, I always try to recognize them and take a step back.

Ariella: “Great question. The excitement you feel when you’re running with your team on the field, and the adrenaline rush you get when you take the ball from the other team or score a goal, it’s such an amazing feeling.”

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start soccer for the first time?

Charlotte: “I would say to always try to believe in yourself, and accept that everyone is going to mess up sometimes, no matter their skill level. You also shouldn’t be afraid to make friends with your teammates, even if they might be better than you because they can show you their skills and help you get better as a player, and person in general.”

Ariella: “Practice is the most important part. Try to practice by yourself when you’re not with your team, and if you have a backyard/park near your house, just go there and kick a ball around. It doesn’t have to be much, but will really improve your skills, and it will help you stay motivated.”