Next month, people from all over the world will unite to celebrate the world’s most popular sport as they converge upon South Africa and the 2010 World Cup. Next week, Chula Vista High student Moises Morales will represent the United States in another type of World Cup. This one will run from May 25-31 in Manchester England and feature athletes with physical disabilities from Ireland, England, Holland and the United States. The BT Paralympic World Cup is an annual event and for Morales and his 11 American teammates it represents an exciting opportunity.

    Paralympic soccer is played on a smaller field and with modified rules tailored to the needs of its participants. The program has been in existence for 25 years, but has received little media coverage even among soccer friendly publications. The United States did not qualify for the last major quadrennial event which coincided with the 2008 Olympics.

    As one of the youngest players on the current team Morales hopes to help the U.S. qualify for the 2012 tournament which will coincide with Summer Olympic Games in London.

            “Moises has a good understanding of the game and he has really improved his ability to play both sides of the ball,” according to team manager, Dana Schoenwetter. “He is starting to make quicker decisions on the ball and playing good balls into the box. Moises is becoming a threat on the attack in his role as a midfielder and has improved his ball distribution. He is also learning to track back and help out on defense and he has put a lot of effort into improving his fitness. Over the last two years he has gone from being a 13-year old young kid and an extra body to someone that we feel good about bringing along on an international trip on which he will get considerable playing time.”

   The team has undergone a youth movement in recent years which means they have taken their lumps in recent competition. The idea is that when the 2012 Games roll around the U.S. will be ready to qualify by fielding a team of young, but experienced athletes.

   Coming from a soccer family, Morales began his career playing indoor soccer at the age of seven on a team coached by his mother. His three older brothers preceded him on to the pitch and they helped to refine his skills and encourage him as well.

   “My whole family has been behind me. I wish they could come with me to see me play in England. Playing on this team is a great experience. I really enjoy being a part of this team and traveling with them. I have made a lot of friends through soccer.” Morales said.

   Now under the watchful eye of former Boston Breakers and USWNT coach Jay Hoffman, Morales is building on the fundamental skills he learned from his family. He has great respect for his coaches and is grateful for their efforts on his behalf.

   “I just want to get as far as I can with my ability and be the best that I can be. (At the same time) I want to have a much fun with it as possible.”

   Next week’s trip will be his third international sojourn. Morales twice previously participated in tournaments in Holland. His supportive friends and teachers at Chula Vista High are naturally happy for him and probably just a little bit jealous.