While soccer is a big sport all over the world, one of the reasons for its popularity in Colombia is the players. Colombian soccer players typically don’t come from the big cities; many players come from small rural villages or towns outside of the major cities.
By Gwen Wilson
While soccer is a big sport all over the world, one of the reasons for its popularity in Colombia is the players. Colombian soccer players typically don’t come from the big cities; many players come from small rural villages or towns outside of the major cities.
Soccer is a popular sport played in Colombia by people of all ages as the game can be played anywhere: a field, park, or back yard. For this reason, it’s a sport which brings communities together.
For example, an open space in the middle of the Amazon rainforest could be used for a community to play the game in the evenings. From the fields of Columbia to the small fields of Marshall County, Coach Jose Cortez has made a big difference for local kids who wanted to learn this sport.
From his years of playing in high school to now - his 17 years of coaching - Jose Cortez said he loves what he does. Cortez teaches more than just soccer moves and plays to his players. He also teaches integrity and teamwork.
This summer, Cortez received an award from the Oklahoma High School Soccer Coach Association for his very impressive 130 wins in his 17 years of coaching. Cortez and his wife Crystal who is a secretary at the Ardmore episcopal church enjoy spending time with their dog Pete and building relationships with the families and teens he coaches.
Cortez said his goals were to “take the boys and girls deep into the play offs and bring home a win.” Cortez stated he loves what he does, and he hopes to teach his students not only on soccer skills but on teamwork and togetherness so they can become better members of not just their soccer team but their community and their future families and coworkers.
It takes incredible dexterity and skill to play soccer and Cortez said he wants to invite the community to come on out and watch a game to support these kids who work so hard. Whether it is referred to as soccer or Futbol, it is a fast-paced game of skills and quick decisions. Congratulations to Cortez for his recognition and his teams on the 130 wins.