ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Chandler Theobald

Central Florida Christian Academy’s soccer program got a reboot this season after a 12-year hiatus. The program collected its first win of the season against Windermere Prep Jan. 11 when sophomore Chandler Theobald scored the Eagles’ first goal of the season.

How long have you played soccer?

This was my first year playing soccer for CFCA. I’ve played soccer at a younger age, but this is my first time playing organized soccer. 

Why did you start playing soccer?

I wanted to get better at football and be better next year as far as conditioning, footwork and speed goes. I also just wanted to try out soccer. I really like it. It’s a lot of fun and it’s a lot of running, but it’s a good way to condition and keep myself in shape.

How did it feel to score that first goal?

It felt really good to snap a 12-year (streak) of no goals and no soccer ever, and I’m glad I could make history for the school.

How has your coach helped you improve?

Coach (John) Davis has done a really good job; he’s taught me a lot more than I ever thought could be part of soccer. He’s taught me so many drills that I’ve never even heard of that soccer players do, and it’s helped me so much with my footwork. I’m really looking forward to next season and the upcoming football season to show off what I’ve worked on.

How does your faith play a role on and off the field?

It helps me to make better decisions. It tells me to always put God first and give the glory to Him in the wins and losses and to not listen to what people say to you because God gave you those talents.

What career do you hope to have one day?

I want to be a detective. Solving a case, finding leads and so on — I love stuff like that. I really want to get into it and see what I can do with it in the future. 

If you could be any animal, what would you be?

A penguin, because I could be in the cold and I’d like to go down a snowy hill on my stomach!

What’s your favorite quote and why?

“Hard work beats talent.” Hard work is always better than talent; if you work hard, you’re going to develop your talent.

What’s a song you’ve been listening to lately and why do you like it?

“Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons. It helps get me focused on and ready for the game to do my best.

How do you stay focused on the field?

I don’t think about anything outside of school; I only think about my job and what I’m supposed to do and give my all at all times. Other sports have helped me learn to cut other fans and teams out and just focus on my game.