It’s a Summer of Soccer in Tucson

Did you know that the World Cup is not the only soc- cer event happening this summer? FC Tucson still has games. I was invited as a reporter to cover their Youth Night Game and this is what happened. When I got to the event, I got to see the players getting ready for the game. People visited the sponsors’ tents where children could play games and win prizes. I also met the Digital Media and Content Manager for FC Tucson, Lindsey Ridgway. She told me what I was going to do and showed me the media room. When I got to the media room, I met the commentator and other news reporters. They were really friendly to me—they helped me knowing what notes to take and how to better understand the game.

Before the game started, children had the opportunity to sign up to be ball kids and the escorts that walk out with the players. They seemed to be really excited to be part of the game. The fi rst part of the game was really exciting. FC Tucson was winning 2-1 against Ventura County Fusion Soccer Club. Ismael Ruiz and Hayato Takayama from FC Tucson both scored a goal.

Children had two other opportunities to participate during half time. The fi rst one was the plush toy toss, where kids toss new plush toys into the fi eld to be donated to Banner Diamond Medical Center. The other
one was when 100 kids were invited to play a match against three FC Tucson players. Children were able to score one goal and win the challenge.

The final score was 2-2. After the game ended, I got to interview player number #16, D’Andre Pickett, and head coach Sebastian Pineda. I asked Pickett what was a tip he had for children who want to become soccer players. He said the most important thing is to love the game and find love in the process, work hard and overcome failures. I also asked if he had a moment where he wanted to quit and he said that right after high school, but he had people that believed in him and that helped him to keep going. Coach Pineda said it was the game he expected, a top of the conference game.

This event was the best opportunity I have had as a reporter. I would love to go back to report again about
FC Tucson.

The last match of the season is Friday, July 10 at 7 p.m. Visit www.fctucson.com/ for tickets and more information.

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