World Cup Fever - How Football Is Much More Than a Game

The FIFA World Cup is a powerful global event that allows us to set aside our differences and play the beautiful game. My parents brought their love for soccer from Mexico as they settled into a new life in the US and, consequentially, my family and I are football fanatics.

We share the passion, excitement, and dedication to our sport. So much intensity, mostly happiness, but occasional disappointments.

Whether you are pursuing your academic or career goals, the World Cup is more than just a game – it’s a metaphor for our own reality. The battle to win our own stars in life, and the obstacles we overcome to reach our full potential. Football is not about being a spectator, it’s about being an active player.

Football is a tribe you fight for, just like family. In mine, football is passed down through generations, and it’s a topic we bring to the dinner table.

Our family tradition started when my youngest brother was born during the 2002 World Cup. Four years later we traveled to Europe for the first time and found the streets of Germany packed with fans from all over the world, cheering and chanting for their tribes.

The event opened my eyes to the world. One beautiful thing about football is that when you’re on a team, everybody’s the same. It was an unforgettable experience to share our culture, language, and pride for Mexico in Europe.

My parents pushed my siblings and I to be on top of the class when it came to sport, school and careers. The mindset we share is to never give up. When we want something, we work hard to get it. No cheating or short cuts. And we support each other 100%.

Growing up, football taught me to be ambitious with a fair play attitude. When victories don’t turn out the way you want them to, you prepare yourself for the next opportunity and try again.

I was 17-years-old when I figured out what I wanted to do professionally. My souvenir from the 2006 World Cup was the “Impossible Is Nothing” poster by adidas, the first piece of design I ever owned. That poster influenced the beginning of my career – it inspired me to study design.

My mindset as a competitive swimmer and the influence of football allowed me to create my career goals. But, I learned that no one will approach you with opportunities; you have to fight for what you desire. We all have different skills and potential, so it’s important to nurture your talent to succeed. Follow your intuition and actively search and ask for opportunities.

For 16 years, my family and I have been traveling the world, creating memories, and supporting our team in various football events.

The majority of life lessons I learned is because of the World Cup, and I can’t imagine my life without the beautiful game. Football teaches you to have a “Move More” mindset, no matter how busy life gets. Don’t build barriers around your heart. Do everything with love. Always maintain an active lifestyle and build new skills – your abilities might surprise you along the way.

Get ready to wave your flags and cheer for your tribe! The beautiful game is coming back, and we are ready for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.