By Payton Moody
VYPE: What did this season of soccer mean to you as a player?
Damien Leyva: This season meant a lot to me. You never really think about how close you are to being done playing high school soccer until you’re a senior. I really wanted to have a long season and fight through playoffs, not just for me but for my seniors. Everything I do is or my seniors so they can get the time they deserve out of the season. Now I’m on the clock and it’s time to work.

VYPE: What preparation and training were key in your success?
DL: A lot of success came from how fit we all were. The coaches made sure we could run the whole game and always be able to find that second wind. This helps in the late part of a soccer game. I also went to Rise Futsal Academy to get more touches on the ball and a faster feel to the game.

VYPE: What has your sport taught you that you use in your daily life?
DL: Teamwork and communication has helped me a lot outside of soccer. A great thing about the Southmoore soccer program is that they teach you things to be ready for the real world, like how to jump start a car, change a tie, change a tire, etc. Things to help you get a job and be successful.

VYPE: Why are you passionate about your sport?
DL: Soccer has just always been exciting to me. I get to meet so many new people and create bonds with tons of coaches. Soccer has also helped me out in life. It’s just always been something I can turn to.

VYPE: Who inspires you and why?
DL: My mom truly inspires me; she’s a very strong and independent woman and she always seems to have the right thing to say. She’s always been by my side throughout my whole life.

VYPE: What has been your favorite memory in your sport?
DL: I would most definitely say my favorite memory so far is our team camping trip we had this season. It was a new family bonding idea, and everyone had a blast. It was especially funny when we got out of the water, and I had a fish in my swim trunks.

VYPE: What is the best advice anyone has given you?
DL: Best advice I’ve gotten was “It doesn’t matter what happened in the past; all that
matters is the present. Nothing is impossible.”

VYPE: What are your plans after high school graduation?
DL: Still planning out what I’m going to do after high school. I’m hoping to go play soccer somewhere and get a degree in physical therapy.

VYPE: Here is your chance to give a shout out or say anything to anyone you wish!
DL: I want to give a huge shout out to my mom and family. They’ve really helped me keep my spirits up despite the setbacks I’ve had. Also shout out to my coaches for not only helping me on the field but also off the field to become a better player and man I can be.