I was diagnosed with Tourette's at a very young age--my Mom was actually afraid I was suffering from seizures, but my neurologist knew it was Tourette's right away. In spite of, or perhaps because of this issue , I have always worked extra hard to be successful on the soccer field. After I learned about Tim Howard and his success, I knew soccer didn't have to be an unattainable dream.
Soccer has taught me so many things beyond field awareness and tactical strategies. It has taught me what coming together as a team, no matter your background or struggles, can accomplish. It has taught me to respect all those who play the beautiful game with me and learn, not just about soccer, but about bonds that grow from battling out a tough won victory or suffering a devastating defeat on the field. These are lessons that translate to success in life beyond athletics. These are lessons that show us to not judge people by what they look like or where they come from, but how hard they are willing to work and how dedicated they are to team success, not just individual success.
And while success on the soccer field can be a hard-fought battle, success in the classroom has always been a little easer for me. I am a dedicated student and player, and would be a great asset to any program.