•  This ball is a big part of my life. In 2014 my dad, my grandpa and I traveled to Brazil for the World Cup. Sitting in the stadium watching the Germany vs Algeria game was a huge moment for me. The crowd was loud and the game was crazy, and being with my dad and grandpa in that moment with them changed everything. That trip is what really made me fall in love with football. Before that it was just something that interested me but seeing the passion in the stadium made it my favorite sport. Even though the tournament ended years ago I keep this ball to remember that feeling. It reminds me of the long flights, the goals we cheered for, and how soccer keeps my dad, my grandpa, and me connected. It’s more than just a ball it’s the reason I still play and watch the game today .As soon as we got back home to Austin I knew I couldn't just watch anymore and that I had to play. When I was around 8 or 9 years old I joined a local soccer club. Playing for my club in Austin became my favorite part of the week. I spent all my time practicing drills and playing scrimmages. Always thinking back to those pro players I saw in Brazil. Whether it was a hot Texas afternoon or a weekend tournament, I felt like I was carrying a piece of that World Cup trip with me every time I stepped onto the pitch.

– Malik Hamza

Relationship:  Im/migrant who arrived as a child Im/migrant who arrived as a child