Written for a college writing class and non-football playing readers. I show up to the field in shorts and a training top, carrying cleats in the bag on my back and a water bottle in my right hand. The air…
I met Daniel Motalebian at a soccer pitch in Coquitlam for the first time on a dark Wednesday evening. He strode towards the team, holding a pair of cleats in his right hand and car keys in the other. I…
One day I hope to tell this story to my children and grandchildren. Their little feet can run in these same cleats. They will discover the same importance of balancing hard work, fun and discipline, as I once did. My…
The park wasn’t the most ideal version of nature but it would have to do for the 30 minutes I had to spare before soccer practice. I already had on my gear, minus shin pads and cleats, as I strolled…
Fictional places, characters and events. Written for a college writing class. I sat down at his kitchen table and made a point to stay as close to the exit as possible. I kept my purse in my lap. For shoes,…
Here’s what I think: Everyone who says it’s not possible, everyone that says, “oh he’s not gonna make it,” I think they say that because they’re afraid. Mathematically, yes, he won’t. He won’t accomplish the impossible, because the chances are…
Your knowledge does not define your worth. What mindsets can help you learn effectively and quickly? What holds you back from admitting you have areas to grow? If you believe you’ve surpassed someone, you will not appreciate their perspective on…
The other day, someone said to me, “Taya, you’re going to be famous one day.” The moment I heard those words, I expected to feel joy and excitement. I thought I’d be thrilled by the idea of having people see…