Seventeen and Ready - The Journey to Gameday
This weekend marks a massive milestone in my football journey — I’ve officially been rostered to play my first league match for SU Sintrense. It’s week two of the season, and while it might sound like just another game on the schedule, for me, it means everything.
What makes it even more special? I found out on my 17th birthday.
From the Bottom Up
When I arrived at Sintrense, I knew I was starting from scratch. Nobody knew who I was, what level I could play at, or what I could bring to the team. I wasn’t guaranteed anything. My goal was simple — earn trust, one training session at a time.
The first week of the season, I wasn’t rostered. Honestly, I expected that. Coaches build their squads around the players they already know and trust. I understood that I’d have to prove myself in every session until my opportunity came.
So that’s what I did — showing up early, putting in extra work, being vocal, and giving everything in training. Every week has been about improving and showing consistency. And now, that work has led to this weekend — my first official chance to step on the pitch in league competition.
The Moment That Matters
Getting rostered isn’t just a number on a list. It’s a moment that represents everything that’s happened over the past year — moving across the world, adjusting to a new language, waiting for FIFA clearance, going through trials, and dealing with the highs and lows of football life in Europe.
It also solidifies the decision I made to chase this dream. Leaving home, friends, and comfort wasn’t easy, but moments like this remind me why I did it. This is what it’s all for.
But I also understand something important — being rostered isn’t the finish line. It’s the start of a new challenge. Now, I have to prove I belong — not just for this game, but for the next one, and the one after that. Every day is a chance to show I can compete at this level.
A Birthday Reminder
Finding out on my birthday made it all feel like a sign — a reminder that progress doesn’t always come when you expect it, but when you’re ready for it.
This milestone means a lot, but the mindset doesn’t change: work hard every day, stay humble, and believe in yourself — and good things will happen.
No shortcuts. No guarantees. Just work, patience, and belief.
This is what I’ve been building toward for a year. And now that I’ve earned my spot on the roster, it’s time to keep pushing — to make sure this is just the first of many.