Community Connections
For my Community Connections project I chose to interview Jordyn Huitema. Jordyn is a Canadian professional soccer player who plays on Division 1 Paris Saint-Germain and on Canada’s national team. The reason that I chose to interview Jordyn was because soccer is my passion and I would love to have the chance to be where she is today. She is a person that has inspired me to push myself as a player. Jordyn is a local player who grew up in Chilliwack, B.C. and played for one of the local clubs, where she then played on B.C. soccer and quickly made her way to the Whitecaps then on the national team. I wanted to know more about her journey and what steps it took to get to where she is today, so I contacted her by direct message through Instagram.
My interview:
Why are you passionate about your career?
“Because when I’m between the four white lines on the field I forget about everything else, all my worries disappear.”
What obstacles have you faced to get you where you are today?
“Just like most players I’ve experienced a lot if injuries, I broke my left collarbone twice and I’ve gotten multiple concussions. Besides that I’ve been cut from teams that I’ve had to find my way back onto, and one of the hardest obstacles , is giving up social time with your friends.”
What advice would you pass on to someone interested in becoming a high level soccer player?
“All the work that you do behind the scenes, whether that’s an extra shooting practice, or an extra weightlifting session, those will all come to light in your performance . All the little things will add up.”
Would you be open to further contact from Riverside students and if so, how can someone contact you?
“Yes of course! I’m pretty bad with my social media and I’m rarely on it, but they can message me on here (instagram). Hopefully I see it!”
Who inspired you to start playing soccer?
“It was really my family who got me into playing soccer. My two older brothers used to play lots of sports which kind of influence me. And then once I fell in love with soccer on my own there was no turning back.”
What has been your favourite/ most memorable experience?
“Starting in my first World Cup game was an experience that I’ll never forget. Growing up watching it on TV, I would see the camera follow the starting 11 as the refs grab the ball, getting to be a part of that was incredible.”
This interview inspired me and there was a lot that I took from it. It was interesting to hear her talk about her pathway and how its always the little things that you do that make the difference and the work you put in when people aren’t watching. After doing the interview it has really made me realize that there are many obstacles that you are going to face and you should never give up on what you are passionate about. I have met Jordyn in person a few times at different soccer camps and she is such an amazing and humble person with the best personality and I was so glad that she was able to answer my questions.
Interview proof:
Photo sources:
- https://www.bcsoccer.net/news/post/jordyn-huitema-surprised-at-her-canadian-international-youth-player-of-the-year-award
- https://theprovince.com/sports/soccer/international-soccer/b-c-teenage-soccer-star-jordyn-huitema-opts-to-forgo-college-and-turn-pro
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8Mg6sTeb3Y
- https://www.zimbio.com/photos/Jordyn+Huitema