YARETZI RIVERA

9/12/2022

 My name is Yaretzi Rivera, I'm currently 13 years old, and  I had the opportunity to be trained and educated by Rose Shoen. I joined Rose's training sessions about 3 years ago. I had absolutely no experience with soccer, little motivation, and was extremely out of shape. It's funny because I still remember the day I joined. I was working on homework when my dad asked me, "Do you want to try soccer out today?", I responded, "Sure!", that night Rose greeted me, I thought to myself that this would be super easy, but oh, was I wrong, those 2 hours felt like torture, and the fact that I hardly had any motivation didn't help. The next day I ached extremely and was terribly sore, but was forced to go the next day. There were kids enjoying themselves and putting in so much effort, I thought to myself, "How are they happy? How can they enjoy this?". I found the answer to those questions later that year but for now I was furious at my parents for taking me, they continued to. That went on for about the next 5 months. Then I began to realize what Rose and my parents were doing for me, they were setting me up for the real world, they weren't just pushing me physically, but mentally as well. After that, I started unfolding myself and arranging goals. Rose was there for me each day pushing me to get that 1 second cut off my mile time or telling me not to hesitate and "Take that shot!". She motivated me and believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself. Now I enjoy training and know I will better develop each day. I'm definitely not the best athlete but I am exceedingly proud of where Rose has got me and I hope to improve. Rose is the most trusting, considerate, head strong person I've ever met. Rose taught me to be up-beat and strive above my limit for any little obstacle that gets in my path. 

Thank you so much Rose! 

Sincerely, 

Yaretzi Rivera