Diversity proves to be no adversity for men’s soccer team
A less known fact about Palm Beach Atlantic University’s men’s soccer team is that more than 10 different countries are represented, including Scotland, Italy, France and Brazil.
“The team chemistry has been great so far this season,” said head soccer coach Brian McMahon. “The game of soccer is a global game, so there is a basic understanding and respect of all diversities among the team.”
Twenty-two new players were added to the men’s soccer team this year, which McMahon said created much excitement for the program. Seventeen of these players are from countries outside of the United States.
“The team has developed a strong bond since the beginning of the fall semester,” said junior fullback Branden Langenberg. “With 11 different nationalities on the team, our team has bonded quite well through what we call ‘FFF’.”
FFF stands for Forced Family Fun. This event is where the team gathers to grow closer through a variety of activities.
Langenberg added that the new players have coped well with the school and the team.
“We as a team plan on continuing to grow closer to one another off the field in order to increase our play on the field and maintain that cohesiveness,” Langenberg said.
Brazil native freshman forward Gabriel Saroli said he heard about PBA from one of McMahon’s former players.
Saroli said he trained during the summer and dedicated himself during the preseason.
“I have been playing soccer for about 16 years, since I was 2 years old,” said Saroli. “My individual goal is to able to start a game as soon as I become eligible.”
However, McMahon believes that these goals and training are a learning process.
“Coach McMahon has done a great job bringing the team together with such a high number of new players,” Langenberg said. “His methods of getting the team together off the field have really impacted the team’s cohesiveness positively.”
The ethic diversities have not affected the team as it has started the season 6-2-3.
“It is a very good and united team,” said Saroli. “Soon people will know us for winning the first NCAA national championship.”
VICTORIA VARTAN 