Catalina Pérez was at the most important moment of her career as a soccer player, being a figure on the Colombian National Team in the World Cup in New Zealand and one of the star signings of the German Werder Bremen when, last January, she was injured in training and heard one of the most feared words in its sport: “cruciate ligament rupture.”
Now, from Germany, the 29-year-old goalkeeper speaks with EL TIEMPO about her recovery process and her option to play in the next Olympic Games in Paris.
What went through your mind when you were diagnosed with a torn cruciate ligament and how did you deal with that moment that left you out of the season with Werder Bremen?
(Also read: ‘We have a way to win an Olympic medal.’ The goalkeeper of the Colombian National Team speaks)
Returning to the team after months away must have been an emotional moment. How would you describe your first day back at training camp?
It was a very special and emotional day. Feeling the support of my colleagues and getting back to doing what I love filled me with energy and motivation. Every step on the field reminded me why it’s worth fighting and not giving up.
After overcoming an injury, which many thought would keep you out, how does it feel to put on the Colombia shirt again for the Paris Olympics?
I feel immensely grateful, I have been preparing myself body, soul and heart and I will continue to do so day after day to give my best at the Olympics. I feel ready to do what I like and am passionate about in life, which is defending the Colombian goal. As for the group, we have been together for many years, we are a solid and experienced team. We communicate very well on the court, we have very clear goals and we have always dreamed big.
In times of adversity, what inspires you most to keep going and keep your motivation high?
My faith. I feel that God has me where he has me for a reason and I want to fulfill his purpose. My family, who has been unconditional since my beginnings in football and also many people who have been with me through thick and thin and who have lifted me up and encouraged me to keep going. I have found angels along my path that have made all the difference.
Comparing German football with what you had played before, what are the most notable differences and how have you adapted your style of play to these new demands?
Football in Germany is very physical; the style, more risky.
Living in Germany, what has your experience been like adapting to the language, climate and culture, and what lessons have you learned from this process?
(Also: After controversy with Yoreli Rincón, another player accuses Catalina Usme of promoting vetoes)
For young people who see you as a role model, what advice would you give them to overcome adversity and continue pursuing their dreams?
May they never give up, may they continue pursuing their dream. The path may change, but that doesn’t mean your goals have to change. Enjoy your journey because not only the objective counts but also everything you experience on the journey.
What do you consider to be your greatest strength as a goalkeeper and how have you developed it throughout your career?
I would say to play with gratitude and with the heart, leaving everything on the court. That has always been my philosophy and it is my goal with the Olympics.
Looking toward the future, what are your short and long-term expectations for your soccer career and what goals do you have with the Colombian National Team?
Continue growing in Europe and of course play another Copa América, another World Cup and other Olympics. I want to continue making history with the Colombian National Team.
Ana María Jaramillo
For TIME
#Catalina #Pérez #preparing #body #soul #heart #Olympic #Games
