The Unknown becomes Known

Roland McKay is a 17-year-old high school soccer prodigy. He is known throughout his hometown in Detroit as the next “David Beckham.” He will be graduating in June 2015, and is currently in the process of deciding which university to attend. He has met with numerous recruiters, and has several scholarship offers. Roland is very appreciative to even be presented with such opportunities considering his past.

Roland lives with his mother and four other brothers and sisters. His father was a pilot in the military who passed away when Roland was 13. Growing up in a military family there was always change. The McKay’s were never in one spot for too long. Roland has attended 11 different schools, almost every year his family moved. This made it hard for the kids to make and keep friends. It was difficult to emotionally invest into relationships with the other kids knowing they wouldn’t be around for long.

This is why Roland began to play soccer. In grade three, Roland joined his community soccer league and found his athletic gift. He loved that he was recognized as a someone, and not just a ghost passing through the town. His teammates were grateful of his skills, which made him love the sport even more. Every time he moved he would join the town or schools soccer team and was instantly connected. Being on a team created feelings of comfort of having a social family. Although his home was chaotic with five children, Roland was social being. He liked hanging out with others, which is why he had a hard time saying goodbye when it was time to leave.

Roland was a tall, thin fellow. With long, gangly limbs, it was like watching a daddy-long leg spider run on the field. But it was magical to watch him move. He was fast and seemed to be miles ahead of the other high school kids. He could kick the ball from one end of the field to the other, which came from years of kicking the ball out of frustration. His past had a huge influence on his future, and he never thought he could accomplish so much. He’s crystal blue eyes against his tan skin pierce through crowds when he looks to his supportive fans. Also his smile is victory in itself. His teeth are bright white, but slightly crooked. His smile is slightly slanted to the left but when he scores a goal, it consumes most of his face. From ear to ear all you can see is teeth.

Roland is a genuinely happy kid with a future brighter than his smile.