SASA selects and grooms teams of “above average and advanced players that traveled to high level tournaments with sponsors,” Mike continues. And Springfield High School provided tournament showcases for recruiters to see him in action.

Now that Mike is playing for Parkland College, friends ask if he wants to go professional.

“Everybody wants to,” Mike says. “Even when you’re a little kid. You see them on TV and you want to be that guy. The David Beckham. It’s a lot tougher than people think, though. To make it, you have to start very young, know the right people, put in the time and effort to be the best, and your parents have to pay a lot of money to play the highlevel tournaments to get you seen (by professional teams). And then, if you make tryouts, you have to work your way up from the reserve squad.

“My recommendation for kids is, start young,” Mike continues. “For parents, be willing to put in the effort with your kids. And, just have fun. I feel like soccer players are the best athletes in the world. They’re physically fit, smart and can play any sport. And there’s constant action. It’s a fun sport.”

Former soccer mom and lifelong soccer fan DiAnne Crown kicks a surprisingly effective toe ball.

The last regular season game of fall YMCA soccer was Oct. 15, but tournament play is scheduled for Oct. 22 and 23 at UIS. For more program information, call the YMCA at 544-9846 or the SASA office at 891-4486.