My family’s immigration story begins with my parents, who met and married in Ecuador in their early twenties. Living in the countryside with limited education and job opportunities, they made the difficult decision to migrate to the U.S. in search of a better future. They left behind everything they knew — except their deep love for soccer.My mom grew up on a small farm where her family grew vegetables and raised animals. Her family was very poor, so from a young age she helped on the farm daily. While in school, she played on a girls' soccer team — something she loved deeply. But eventually, the demands of farm work became too much, and she had to drop out to support her family full-time. Still, her love for soccer never left her, and she played whenever she could.My dad’s childhood was also marked by hardship. With his parents often working away from home, he and his siblings were left in the care of his older sister. Soccer became their way of bonding — a joyful escape in difficult times.For both of my parents, soccer symbolized hope, connection, and resilience. When they started a family in the U.S., they made sure to pass that love on to us. Growing up, we played at the park together and watched games as a family. Soccer became more than just a sport — it was how we stayed close, celebrated our culture, and built memories that still hold us together today. 

– CL

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant