by Zach Kluver, staff reporter

The Roar talked with freshman Fernando Flores, a long-time soccer player (and fan), who currently plays on the varsity team.

How many years have you been playing soccer?

About 7 years.

What soccer teams have you played for previously?

The Texans and the Speed Demons.

What position do you play?

Midfielder. They control the center of the field and the game by giving the team chances to score.

How did you get on the varsity soccer team?

There were some people saying, ‘You’re not going to make it onto varsity soccer,’ so that was pretty much my goal, and during summer I worked hard the whole time.

How is varsity practice in comparison to non-varsity practice?

It’s a lot more physical and faster, you know? And you get a lot more experience with players that have been playing on varsity for years, so it makes me a better player. I’m learning from them.

Despite being a freshman, did you originally feel comfortable as part of the varsity team?

Well, at first I didn’t feel comfortable. I felt young and like everyone else was going to hate me, but I got to meet them and learn about them and we’re almost a family now.

What do you consider the most challenging aspect of soccer?

I think it’s playing with guys that are older than you because they’re more physical and faster.

What have you learned from these experiences?

I’ve learned to play with the ball, you know, pass the ball faster, and I’m trying to get stronger so I can be like them, you know.

How does soccer impact your daily life?

I’m not sure. For soccer you can eat as much as you want, because you lose so many calories playing, you never get fat.

What does it take to be skilled at soccer?

Mainly practice. You have to practice for years, always work hard, and never give up.

What are you most proud of in your soccer career?

I’m just proud to be good. It takes a lot of time to practice and become good.

How do you prep yourself before games?

I listen to music and just focus. Just think about soccer, and how we’re going to win the game.