At the start of the World Cup goaltender Sophia Perez found herself in a unique position. She was born and raised in the United States, but she has represented Mexico many times in international competition as a member of its women’s national soccer team. Perez however, didn’t have to think very long when I asked her where her sympathy lies.

   “Mexico,” she said emphatically. “While it is getting stronger, the United States really doesn’t have much of a soccer culture, but when I have played down there I saw first hand how important soccer was to everyone there. So, I root for Mexico.”

   Fans of both the United States and Mexico were pleased to see both teams advance beyond the first round to the knock-out round of 16, but sad to see their teams fall to Ghana and Argentina.  Perez is hoping that the excitement created by the World Cup will have a trickle down effect on attendance for her games. At present, Perez is tending goal for San Diego United. It has given her a new lease on her soccer life.

   “Last year I was in New Jersey as practice player for Sky Blue (of the WPS) so this is a perfect transition for me. It is nice to be playing games and finding my rhythm again. As a goalkeeper, practice alone doesn’t really cut it, you need game experience and there is a good level of competition here. I am getting more experience, playing here and understanding more about the game. You can never learn too much,” she added.

   Perez has been Mexico’s starting goalkeeper for the last several years, but she is not sure how much longer she will be involved with Mexico’s national team. She describes her situation as “limbo” right now.

   “Going back is always an option. I will see how I feel and how my rhythm is coming back to me. Mexico is participating in a tournament at the end of July in Puerto Rico so we will see.”

   In the meantime, Perez spends her days at Juvenile Hall. No, she is not in trouble, she is a full-time substitute teacher there. In addition, she coaches a youth soccer team at Liberty Station and then at night practices with United, so she has a full schedule, but she is not complaining.

   “My job (at Juvenile Hall) is wild. There is never a dull day. It is all boys that I am working with. They range in age from 13-18. From the moment you walk in you never know what to expect, but I love it. It’s a blast. Working at Juvenile Hall is just like coaching. I just try to mentor them. Some of the kids you can reach and some of them you can’t.”

   At 28, Perez has traveled around the world and played in international competition, but she is enjoying the relative calm of living in San Diego and working in her current job(s). 

   “I haven’t had a steady job in so long that I am really enjoying this one. I love working at Juvenile Hall and I love coaching and playing on this team. It is nice being where I am right now.”

   San Diego United returns to USD’s Torero Stadium on July 17 where they will play the Claremont Stars at 6:30 p.m.

   For additional information visit: www.sdunited.net