Football is for life -- Stephan Schröck

Football is for life -- Stephan Schröck

Football is for life -- Stephan Schröck

Football is for life -- Stephan Schröck

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Manila, Philippines, 19 May 2020 – In the second episode of E-Sports International’s podcast, Heroes of Halftime, Azkals and Ceres-Negros FC captain Stephan Schröck disclosed that that when his playing career ends,

he will still be involved in the Philippines football community in one way or another. Schrock claims football gave him the life he has today, and that the future may likely lead him to an advocacy of teaching his beloved sport to less fortunate children. Manila, Philippines, 19 May 2020 – In the second episode of E-Sports International’s podcast, Heroes of Halftime, Azkals and Ceres-Negros FC captain Stephan Schröck disclosed that that when his playing career ends, he will still be involved in the Philippines football community in one way or another. Schrock claims football gave him the life he has today, and that the future may likely lead him to an advocacy of teaching his beloved sport to less fortunate children. 


Aiming to groom football’s next generationSchrock is proud of the accomplishments football has helped him achieve, but is happier with how the sport helped him become a better father, husband, friend, and individual. Football taught him to be focused and kept away from bad influences. Now that he has reached his goal of becoming a successful football player, his new dream is to help Filipino youth find a new perspective through football, particularly kids with economic, psycho-social or family struggles. 


“Every day is a learning experience and an opportunity to give back to the community,” Schröck said. “I want to help kids become very good at something, not just football. I want to help them be good in school and in life because football is only 3 hours of your day and the 21 hours is about life. There is more to life than just football.” 


The country’s most recognized football star shared his vision of opening a football academy after his playing time on the field, one that will provide opportunities for aspiring football players outside of Metro Manila. 


“The Philippines is full of talented athletes. If only the government would help support these players, the results would be unbelievable! The Filipino athletes have so much potential and hopefully I can help them achieve their dreams and give their families a better life,” Schröck said. 


Economic benefits of footballThe 33-year-old athlete has come to understand that many people in the Philippines do not yet see football as a viable career. Professional football players in the country can fetch a six-digit salary, which Schrock says would be an economic advantage to those aiming to lift themselves up from poverty.


“Many Filipino children are breadwinners for their families and they often have 18 to 30 thousand-peso salaries. But if you can play football, willing to work hard and make sacrifices, then football can be a viable source of income.”


Schröck confirmed reaching the level of competitive football will not be easy, as the football industry is very competitive. Aspiring football players have to work hard to outdo their peers and earn a place in their respective national teams or leagues, so passion plays an important part. Mastery of the techniques will earn an individual a chance to play on the field, but passion and drive will propel one’s career.  

“I am not the tallest or the fastest or the most skillful football player you’ve ever seen, definitely not. But if you are willing to put in the work and make sacrifices you will make it very far in this sport.”

 

photo courtesy : ABSCBN SPORTS