Embarking on a journey that would take him far from the familiar fields of Modesto, California, to Lora del Río, an old town 40 miles outside Sevilla, Spain, Leo Avalos stepped into a new chapter of his life. For the 17-year-old rising soccer player, this trip was more than a change of scenery—it was the next step in a lifelong dream.
Leo’s journey began with three flights and two layovers, traveling a total of 24 hours. By the time his feet touched Spanish soil, exhaustion mixed with excitement. “My first thought was how different it is from the U.S.,” he said, reflecting on the sights and sounds of a new country. As he made his way to his apartment in Lora del Río, the quiet charm of the town immediately struck him. Narrow streets, close-knit neighborhoods, and a slower pace of life contrasted with the hustle of Modesto. It was a world apart, but Leo was ready to embrace it.
Adjusting to a New Life in Spain
The first day in Spain was all about recovery. Jet lag had taken its toll, and Leo spent most of the day in bed resting. But by the second day, he began to explore the town, discovering that everything in Lora del Río was within walking distance. “You can walk through the whole town,” he said, noting how different it felt compared to sprawling American cities. The climate, similar to Modesto’s, helped him adjust, but the initial days of training were still a challenge. His body was adapting not just to the time difference but to the rigorous demands of his new schedule.
Leo’s first meal in Spain was a revelation—a potato omelette, a Spanish dish known as “tortilla de patatas.” “It caught me by surprise, but it was really good,” he said. Healthier and more balanced than the food he was used to back home, Spanish cuisine quickly became one of his favorite parts of the experience.
First Steps on the Field
Leo’s first training session was on a turf field, meticulously watered to ensure the ball moved faster—a detail that symbolized the style and precision of Spanish soccer. “I came onto the field with the mentality that I would own this place and give it my best,” he said. From the moment the session began, the difference in the level of play was evident. The speed was faster, the intensity higher. Players moved with purpose, passing the ball quickly and creating space in ways that felt instinctual.
“The coaching style here is very different,” Leo explained. “They expect you to play fast and let your body take over when you’re tired, testing your instincts and skill.” It was a challenge, but one that Leo embraced with excitement.
Life in Lora del Río
Adjusting to life in Lora del Río meant adopting a new routine. Leo’s days started early, often waking up at 5 a.m. He would stretch, brush his teeth, and head to the field. Training sessions were frequent—two to three times a day. Mornings and afternoons were spent working one-on-one with his roommate, helping each other improve and work on their weaknesses. Evenings were reserved for training with local clubs, where the level of competition pushed him to his limits.
Outside of soccer, Leo found time to explore and admire the city’s beauty and rich history. He also focused on building connections. “The best thing to do is get out of your comfort zone and make new friends,” he said. These bonds made the experience even more fulfilling.
Lessons from the First Week
By the end of the first week, Leo had already learned valuable lessons. Training in Spain demanded more than physical skill—it required mental toughness. “I’ve learned to react while my body is tired, relying on my instincts and abilities,” he shared. The challenge of stepping into an unfamiliar environment, meeting new people, and adapting to a different style of play had helped him grow both as a player and as a person.
For Leo, the most memorable moment so far has been connecting with people who speak a different language. It reminded him of the universal power of soccer—a game that transcends borders and brings people together.
Words of Wisdom
Leo’s advice to young players dreaming of opportunities like his is simple yet profound: “Give all your glory and praise to the Lord up above. He will guide you to succeed. Never lose sight of your dream. While others are sleeping and dreaming of making it pro, be up training to make your dreams come true.”
His journey to Spain has been one of self-discovery, resilience, and gratitude. “This experience has made me realize how grateful I am for my family and friends who support me,” Leo said. “It’s about making a name for yourself and leaving a mark.”
From the dusty fields of Modesto to the well-watered turf in Spain, Leo Avalos is living his dream, one step at a time. His journey is a testament to hard work, faith, and the power of embracing the unknown. As he continues to train and grow, the world will surely hear more about this young talent from Modesto who dared to dream big.
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