Humility on the Soccer Field
by Victoria Cardona
David was the star player on his school’s soccer team. He was the captain, and his teammates saw him as a role model, not because he scored goals, but because of his kind heart and how he treated others. When his teammates scored points, David cheered up and down. If someone missed a goal, he gave them a thumbs up or a pat on the back, and encouraged them, “You did your best. You’ll get it next time!” This would instantly put a smile on their faces. Other teams might look down on those who do not score many goals or earn a lot of points. Some players may be slow to learn and fix mistakes. But not David’s team.
One Saturday afternoon, David had an injury due to twisting his ankle and had to sit out for the rest of the game. His teammates seemed worried about him and began to worry about the upcoming match.
“What are we going to do without our captain?” one boy asked.
Another kid chimed in, “Yeah, David is one of our best players.”
David smiled and said, “You guys can win this game without me! Just do your very best.”
So, the team played hard, cheering loudly for one another, no matter the goals missed or scored. They ended up winning.
David’s friend and teammate, Jacob, yelled, “This win is for you, David!”
David smiled. “No, this win is for all of us.”
The coach told the team, “You boys played well because you build each other up. That is what true leadership is all about.”
David was not captain because he was the best player. He was the humblest. And that made all the difference.
2 Ways You can be a Team Player like David
● Celebrate other people’s successes besides your own
● Encourage someone who is having a rough day
Ephesians 4:2 (ESV): “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love …”
About the Author
Victoria Cardona is a graduate of Ave Maria University with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Theology, with minors in Education and Catechetics, and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Educational Leadership at Saint Thomas University. She is a published writer primarily on Blessed is She and The Star of Bethlehem, where she shares reflections rooted in faith, beauty, and discipleship. She draws strength in the lives of the saints, the beauty of adoration, and the quiet strength of Our Lady, striving to live each day with gratitude, simplicity, and joy.
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