VYPE: Can you tell us a bit about your background in academics and sports?

Salvador Rodriguez: I play left back in soccer and I’m a varsity captain. On my academic side, I’m a senior and take honors classes at the high school.

VYPE: What inspired you to start playing your sport?

SR: At first, what inspired me to play soccer was to lose weight but my love for the game grew and I just love playing.

VYPE: How do you balance the demands of academics and athletics in your daily schedule?

SR: While it is challenging at times, I have to do homework before games, so I don’t have to worry about homework later.

VYPE: Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your high school sports career that stands out to you?

SR: Making the playoffs for the first time in program history was the most memorable achievement for me.

VYPE: What challenges have you faced in your sports journey, and how did you overcome them?

SR: Being out of shape for the sport; the way I overcame it was working hard at practice every day.

VYPE: How has being part of a team influenced your personal growth and character development?

SR: Being on a team has helped me with social anxiety and being able to speak out and become captain.

VYPE: Are there any specific rituals or routines you follow before a game or competition to prepare yourself mentally and physically?

SR: To prepare myself for a game, I usually utilize breathing exercises and listen to music to calm my nerves.

VYPE: What role do your coaches play in your development as an athlete, and is there a particular coach who has been especially influential?

SR: They help me develop mentally, to understand the game and my position better. A coach that has been especially influential is Coach Esther Santos. She first introduced me to the sport and has helped me grow as a person.

VYPE: What are your plans after high school?

SR: My plans after high school are to attend The University of Oklahoma and major in biology.