Career Path Of A Managing Director At Street Soccer USA

I was primarily an athlete my whole life, through college and at Sac State. I played soccer on the Division I team there.

I was studying film, with a concentration in film and a degree in communications. However, I didn't know how to translate my skills from the soccer field into a career. Even while studying, nothing felt as rewarding as playing sports.

It took me a long time to find my pathway. I pursued some film opportunities, like interning at a TV news station, but my mind and heart were still with soccer. I wanted to be a professional player.

After college, there was no longer a women's professional league for me to enter. My transition was significantly disrupted, and I didn't handle it well personally. My path isn't one I would recommend.

When I could no longer play, I became heavily involved with drugs and alcohol to fill the void of lacking direction. Eventually, I started finding avenues related to physical fitness and athleticism. I worked as a personal trainer for a while.

I ended up at Street Soccer as a result of getting help for my drug and alcohol substance abuse. I was introduced to the organization as a participant eligible for its benefits. This included competing in soccer tournaments for people who had recently been homeless.

I had experiences with the game I was familiar with, but in a healing way. Once I had these deeply embedded experiences with Street Soccer USA, it resonated with me so much that I pursued it as my career. I wanted it to be available to more people.

We built the organization or chapter from scratch in Sacramento. It was all driven by passion. For me, I understood it intuitively because it's something I've always known so well. Along the way, I learned a lot about operating a business, nonprofits, and fundraising. I had to learn as I went.

If I were to do it again, I would have sought out mentors in college to help expedite that journey. I think the more things you try, the better you understand what you truly want to spend 40 hours a week doing.

In theory, many things can sound appealing. For film, I took a couple of classes and did internships and projects. After a day on set, I realized it wasn't what I thought it would be. It's better to try things out before committing.

If you can try something in a risk-free setting, you can learn more about the people you'll be working with, the actual work, and the day-to-day tasks. Personally, I feel I've ended up where I should be. I found the perfect career path that fits my strengths, who I am, and all my experiences. I just wish it didn't take so long.