As little kids try to find their place in what seems to be a world of curious things, most will inevitably try out a sport or two. For senior Tyler Parker, soccer was the sport that kept his interest.
“I was five years old when I started playing soccer. My parents put me in Optimist and I really enjoyed playing. My dad coached my team every year until I started playing in high school, ” Parker said.
After gaining his start through Optimist Soccer, Parker began to travel with the Knights Soccer Club. He now spends his last year at Rolla High playing varsity soccer.
“I play center defensive mid. My job is to stop the ball before it gets to the defensive,” Parker said.
The team aspect of soccer has allowed Parker to bond with his teammates, especially since many of them were on the same team growing up. The closer a team is, the easier it becomes for them to work together on the soccer field. This applies in and out of season, as Parker enjoys playing pick-up games with some of his teammates during his free time.
“I like playing with my best friends and competing with others. I think that having chemistry with my teammates helps us to play better together and have more fun on the field,” Parker said.
Like any athlete, Parker faces challenges during a soccer season. Soccer not only requires physical capability, but also a positive mindset as challenges arise within a season.
“I think that the hardest part of playing soccer is trying to stay strong mentally and physically throughout the season,” Parker said.
After high school, Parker is interested in attending Missouri State. Although he does not plan on playing soccer, he is open to any opportunities that he is presented with. As for right now, you can find Parker enjoying some of his last moments playing soccer as a Rolla Bulldog. Parker encourages RHS students to come watch the bulldogs as they continue their season.