A ray of sunlight poured through the windows as Marco's dad stood near the door, car keys in hand. Finish your breakfast, he said with a smile. We're going to meet someone who can help you.
Marco paused, his spoon halfway to his mouth.
"who?"
You will find out when we get there, his dad replied, leaving Marco curious and nervous.
About an hour later, Marco and his dad arrived outside a gym. From the doorway, you could hear the clinking of weights and the squeak of sneakers echoed through the air, giving the place an electric, focused energy. As they stepped inside, they were greeted by a tall, broad shouldered man who looked to be in his mid forties. His firm handshake and athletic build were a little intimidating at first, but his warm smile quickly put Marco at ease..
This is coach Ramon, Marco's dad said. "We go way back. He's a trainer now, but back in the day? He was a pro athlete."
Marco's eyes widened. "You were a professional player?" he asked, unable to hide his amazement.
Ramon chuckled, crossing his arms. A long time ago, yeah. But now I help people like you chase their goals. Your dad told me about your dream, Marco. Sounds like you're ready to work hard."
Marco hesitated, doubt creeping in. I want to be good at football, he admitted.
Ramon crouched slightly to meet Marco's eyes, his voice calm but firm. "Let me tell you something. No one is good enough' at the start. Every great player begins with doubt, mistakes, and a lot of failure. But you know what sets them apart? They don't give up. If they are ready to work hard, I will help you. Deal?"
Marco hesitated just a moment before nodding. "Deal."
Ramon smiled and clapped Marcpo's shoulder.
"Good. Let's get started."
They sat down at a small table in the corner of the gym, where Ramon pulled out a notebook. Flipping it open, he began to sketch out a plan. This summer, we're going to be focusing on three thing, first is fitness then we go on to soccer basics, and and then your diet. It's going to be a mix of cardio, training for your strength, and skill building drills. Plus, we're cleaning up your diet-no more junk food."
Marco's dad leaned in. that means no more snacks or junk food and You'll have to work hard , even when it's tough.
Ramon outlined the plan:
for your Diet you will have to Say goodbye to soda and junk food and Hello to balanced meals like proteins, veggies and grains.
for Fitness we are going to be doing cardio everyday to build your endurance, stamina and your strength so you can improve your power.
for Soccer drills we will be focusing on your Ball control, passing, dribbling, and shooting and we take the basics one step at a time
Marco listened intently, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. It sounded tough, but deep down, he knew this was the only way he could improve.
"Do you think I can do it?" Marco asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Roman leaned back with a thoughtful smile.
That depends, he said. Do you believe you can?
Marco nodded, I think so.
That's the spirit," Ramon said, standing up.
We start tomorrow, i want you to Bring your focus and determination because this won't be easy, but i promise, it'll be worth it.
As Marco and his dad walked out of the gym, Marco felt something he hadn't felt in a while: hope. For the first time, he could see a path forward, even if it was a challenging one.
That night, as Marco sat on his bed, staring at the ball on his desk. It didn't feel like a symbol of failure anymore. It felt like a challenge, like a promise waiting to be kept.
Taking a deep breath, Marco clenched his fists. "Tomorrow," he said, "I start for real.