“New Game, New Life” Transcript
It was seven minutes into the second half of my soccer game. A tall, redheaded striker from the other
team collided with me. After flipping into the air, I was flat on the ground with multiple fractures in my
back. I was out for the season and had to wear a back brace for months.
My injuries were physical, but they initiated a process of mental change. As I coped with them, I
discovered a new sense of self and gained a different perspective on life and relationships.
Before the injury, when people asked me about myself, the first thing I would say was, “I’m a soccer
player.” After I broke my back, my self-image began to change. I had a chance to branch out, and I
realized there was more to me—and to life—than just athletics.