Sports Spotlight - West Orange Times & Observer: Ian Garcia

As a freshman on Foundation Academy’s varsity boys soccer team, Ian Garcia has cemented his spot as a starter, and rightfully so. The 15-year-old already has 13 goals on the season, plays club soccer with ACYS Spirit United and does it all while maintaining his star-student status. 

How did you get started playing soccer?

I used to play soccer when I was really little, because my parents wanted me to, but I really didn’t like it. I moved to football and played for a while, but when I started playing tackle football at age 8, I got hurt and didn’t want to play anymore. I tried soccer again and at age 9, I started playing for Florida Rush. When I was 11, I moved to ACYS. When I started doing well, I wanted to keep going. 

Has there been a game this season that has stuck out to you?

The Legacy game. It was a very good game, because not only did our team win 5-0…we played really (well) as a team, and it was the first game of the season that we passed well and communicated. This game was the first game where we played a great game and really deserved a 5-0 win.

Which pro team is your favorite?

Paris Saint-Germain from France. That’s genuinely because of Neymar. I don’t try to copy him on the field, but I look up to him as a player. On the field, you always know when he’s playing. I want to be a player like that — I want to be like he is, how he’s always showing people that he’s there.

Who is your funniest teammate?

It would have to be Joey Zagame or Oliver Cross. They’re both hilarious. Joey is a senior this year, and he’s always cracking jokes. He has that presence with him where everything he says and does is funny. Oliver is from England, so his accent already makes things so funny. 

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

This may sound cheesy, but try your best. Those small words go so hard. Also, outside of the field, no matter what you’re doing, if you always try your best, with God you can do anything. 

How do you prepare before a game?

I usually stay in the gym listening to music and maybe finishing up homework. I choose to think about what I can do better. I like watching games I’ve played in the night before to see if I could do anything better in those kinds of situations.

Is there anyone you look up to or who inspires you?

On the team, I think our senior captain Luke Chase — he’s a great influence to me. He always is nice and helping me with different things. On the field, we sort of have this connection. We all respect him, and I feel like without him, I wouldn’t be doing as well this season. Also, Coach Josh and Coach Carlos are a big reason I’m doing well this season, and it’s because of how much trust they put in me.

Have you watched anything good on Netflix lately?

“The Office” — I just finished all nine seasons of the office. It’s hilarious. During Christmas break, I watched all nine seasons in two weeks.