“But I like being around their energy. Kids keep you young. I like being around the game of fútbol. I like the routine of my work, of showing up somewhere where people are expecting me, even relying on me. It gives my life, at this age, a purpose.”
I sag in my chair, hearing what he’s saying. “Entiendo.” I understand.
He closes his eyes. “The thought of being cooped up in my flat with nothing to do, day after day after day, sounds terrible.”
I place my hand on top of his and pat it. “We’ll see what we can do about that.”
Álvaro doesn’t bother responding, but I tuck the information away to mull on later. I’ll come up with something.
Social Media Post
@SportsFirstMagazine I’m thrilled to share that my good friend @CarlaGarcia7—yes, that Carla García, the woman responsible for bringing national and conference championship trophies home to North Carolina before shaping the culture at @ChicagoTornadoesOfficial—is diving into a new, exciting initiative. Y’all, this June, Tuscany is calling!
For the first time ever, @DiBlancoCalcio, the world-class summer camp in Italy, is opening its doors to female players!
Train with top leadership—former Division 1 and professional players who know what it takes to play at the highest level.
Live the dream in stunning Tuscany—soccer by day, gelato by night.
Join an amazing community of athletes ready to push limits, build friendships, and make history.
Spots are limited. This is YOUR summer.
#GirlPower #GirlsInSports #SoccerCamp
@SoccerUpNC Shut up! @CarlaGarcia7 I am so freaking proud of you!
@SoccerGirlie This is amazing news! Where can I sign up?!
@ChicagoTornadoesOfficial Rooting for you @CarlaGarcia7. Always uplifting #girlsinsports
@santaisabeldepores Enhorabuena!
@teresasabes2 ¡Julieta estará allí!
@womeninsports LFG!
15
Carla
After a full day spent working through details for Luca’s summer camp, I’m ready to eat a plate of paella, kick back with a drink, and enjoy my Sunday.
I’m visiting Abuela when Luca drops by to pick me up so we can go over my logistics progress.
“¡Pasa! Come algo,” Abuela greets Luca, pulling him into the kitchen. She moves right to the stove to fix him a plate of paella.
“Gracias, Abuela,” Luca says, kissing her cheeks. “Como estás?”
“Muy bien. Bien.” She pats his cheek affectionately and I resist the urge to roll my eyes. “How is training with Carla? Is she treating you the right way?”
Luca laughs. This time, I do roll my eyes.
Luca slides a hand to my back and lets it rest there as he dips to kiss the top of my head. “Training is going well, but did Carla tell you the other news?”
Abuela lifts an eyebrow, her eyes darting between us.
“She’s helping me run my summer camp this June,” Luca says.
