Carlos Saldana, a member of the SJR senior class, recently had quite the adventure in Colombia. Carlos participated in a hands-on professional soccer experience, playing against some of the best Colombia had to offer. While there, he was able to learn about the culture of Colombia and even incorporate some of the lessons he learned from SJR along the way. I caught up with Carlos about the trip and what it meant to represent SJR in such a special way.
How did this opportunity come about?
I was given the opportunity through the efforts of my father, who recommended me to his good friend, a part time owner of Pasco Soccer Club. He was the one who ultimately made the decision to bring me along, even though I am still in high school (the team plays at a semi-professional U23 level, competing with college and pro players). Before officially making the team, I had to try out. I went to several practices and played in three games with them before the trip, and they decided to give me a chance to travel with them.
What made you decide to go on the trip?
Once I heard about the trip, my eyes lit up. My mind started to race as I realized this was a once in a lifetime opportunity and a chance to prove myself. There were a lot of factors that went into the decision, and I knew this was something I couldn’t pass up. I definitely doubted myself at times, but I knew I was ready.
What did a normal day look like for you in Colombia?
A normal day started with an early wakeup and then breakfast, before having to catch the team bus at around 9:45 in the morning. Practice began forty-five minutes later and lasted for an hour and a half. After returning to the hotel, we were served lunch and then had to get ready for the rest of the day. At around 2:00 we were able to head out as a team to explore and enjoy what Colombia had to offer.
How was the atmosphere and culture different in Colombia as opposed to the US?
The atmosphere in Colombia was really energetic. The people there were passionate and very open to learning new things about the US. The food there is also quite different as nothing is processed. Everything is one hundred percent authentic, either hand-made or grown locally. At night, the streets were filled with locals who make it a great atmosphere. Everyone was very respectful as well, especially the other players. They wanted to learn as much as they could about the US, just like we wanted to learn more about Colombia.
How was the soccer different in Colombia, and how does it compare to playing with your teammates at SJR?
The soccer was a shock to me. In Colombia, you either play soccer and try to make it pro, or you work (there is no in-between). The players there were very talented and showed exceptional skill that I had never seen in the US. These people practice every single day, twice a day! They have a passion for the sport and genuinely want to play at the highest level. They want to make those around them better, but they are always willing to listen, constantly trying to get better. Playing with my teammates at SJR is completely different, but for good reasons. It’s a family atmosphere and it’s hard to top the feeling of beating Don Bosco with your brothers!
What are things you learned from SJR that you incorporated during your time there, both on and off the field?
SJR taught me how to be a good person in general and to be open to educating myself about new things. SJR also showed me the importance of service and being considerate to those around me. While in Colombia, I always tried to show respect to the locals and their culture, and I wanted to give back to those less fortunate than me. I learned to appreciate what I have, and it was a real eye-opener to see that there were so many people out there struggling every day. SJR soccer has a special place in my heart, and I used countless lessons learned at St. Joe’s during my time in Colombia. I prayed before every match, always worked my hardest and, even when losing, I was able to keep my composure and make sure my teammates did not give up. I was a true leader, and I am very thankful that SJR helped me develop these traits.
What from Colombia do you hope to bring back to the US and the SJR community?
I hope to bring back the kindness and gratitude that the Colombian people gave to me. The people were extremely kind and introduced me to a new culture that truly altered the way I viewed life. Regardless of their situations, everyone had high spirits. I want to bring back that same happiness and spread it to the best of my ability.
How does it feel to have represented SJR in a different country?
Representing SJR in a different country made me feel very proud. I am so grateful to be a symbol for such a great school and community. It felt amazing talking about SJR to kids who want to come to America for a better future. Some of the kids even wanted to come back to SJR with me after they heard me talking about it! The coaches even enjoyed hearing me talk about SJR soccer and the overall community. They were impressed that someone from SJR had been given the opportunity that I had.
What was your favorite memory from the trip?
My favorite memory from the trip was definitely the first game. It was in a stadium full of families and fans. We played against Medellin City FC, which is a third division team in Colombia. In my first game against professional players, I played really well. I made some great saves and even though we lost the game, I was so proud of myself and realized that I could compete with some incredible players. I gained so much confidence after talking to other players and coaches who told me that I had a lot of potential and to just keep working hard.
What was the most important thing you learned from your time in Colombia?
The most important thing I learned from my time in Colombia is to be grateful. Once I made it back to the US after such an amazing experience, I kept asking myself, “Why me?” There are so many talented players out there, but I was still given the opportunity to go. I’m just so grateful for all the lessons I learned along the way. I definitely came home a different person, and I will never take anything for granted again, because I am so fortunate to be where I am now. I can’t thank God and those around me enough for this opportunity, and I couldn’t have asked for a better trip.
Carlos represented SJR in a tremendous way during his time in Colombia. Experiences like this are what being a Green Knight is all about. The three components of being the Vir Fidelis (the Faithful Man), are to think, lead, and serve humbly, and Carlos undoubtedly did all three during his trip. Keep making SJR proud, Carlos!