Gio Roman is a varsity soccer player and a senior at Morton East High School. We interviewed him to share his experience on the varsity soccer team.

Question: What are you doing in high school to make it to the big leagues?
A: I’m staying focused, working hard, and staying on that path for the next few years so I can reach the next level.

Q: Do you look up to any players?
A: Honestly, I don’t really look up to anybody. I look within myself and try to push myself to be better.

Q: What’s a special moment you’ve had in soccer, and why is it special?
A: I’ve had a lot of special moments—playing in regionals and nationals multiple times. I traveled to Florida and even Mexico. Those experiences were special because I got to travel and see new places through soccer.

Q: What position do you play, and why?
A: I play striker because I like scoring goals. I like putting the ball in the net.

Q: What’s the best part about playing varsity soccer?
A: The best part is the recognition—people at school know you, they support you, and it feels good getting that energy from everyone.

Q: Who motivates you to keep going?
A: My teachers and the people around me motivate me to keep pushing.

Q: What do you do to prepare for a game?
A: I usually listen to music and just lock in mentally before the game.

Q: What advice do you have for younger players who want to play?
A: Take risks and build your strength so you don’t get pushed around. Just keep working through adversity.

Q: Who was your toughest opponent?
A: Probably the Vikings—they were a really tough team.