Photo by: Michael Furman

Following a major injury to his ACL and MCL in early September, Pioneer soccer player Sam Garza will no longer be competing in the Under-20 Soccer World Cup.

The sophomore forward was to play for the United States national team throughout the year in preparation for the World Cup in Egypt, which began Sept. 24 and lasts until mid-October.

“I was supposed to leave for Cyprus on September 14th for a 10 day training camp for preparations for the World Cup in Egypt, but with my injury I will not be able to travel anymore,” Garza said.

Garza says he is upset about the injury but is keeping in the right mind set for the future.

“I hope to bounce back from this injury stronger than ever,” Garza said. “So I just have to be patient and when I come back I will start my journey to becoming a professional.”

The national team first showed interest in Garza in December, when he was recruited to a practice camp with the national team. Garza performed at such a high level at the first camp he was invited back to one more, where Team USA played Canada, Garza scored a goal, solidifying his spot on the roster.  

Garza was very excited to have been selected to the team, and thankful for the opportunity, but now he has his eyes set on DU soccer’s upcoming season.

“I know we can make it even farther than last year and make a good run in the tournament.” Garza said. “Its up to them to work hard every single practice and game to achieve that.”

Although Garza is still out with the injury, there is no question that the expectations are high for him throughout the remainder of his soccer career, especially at DU. 

“I’ve never had these kinds of expectations before,” said Garza. “So whenever I step out on the field I have to be at my very best vocally and physically, so I can help lead the team.”

Garza and the Pioneers have another game this Thursday in Springfield, Mo. against Missouri State.