A Hero's Journey: Seph C

This picture means a lot to me as a developing player. It was taken in 2019 when I went to play in Portugal. 

Portugal is my most unforgettable experience as a developing IDF player. I spent two hours each day at the Benfica Training facility working with the same coaches who developed João Félix and Carlos Vinícius and coach against Champions League teams like Barcelona, Real Madrid and Liverpool. During these Benfica training sessions, Coach Lage’s staff evaluated my skills, offered feedback, and provided an experience in the life of a Benfica Academy player. Additional unforgettable memories include training in Benfica’s 360 simulator, touring Benfica’s stadium and trophy room, and being a guest of honor at a Benfica home game. 

Outside of the Benfica training sessions, I spent several hours each day with Coach James (a talent scout who’s helped several players become professional) in team training sessions, performance feedback sessions and just discussing everything soccer. These sessions were challenging and exhausting and not every session went as well as I would have liked, but Coach André was always available to talk and gave me good advice and the encouragement needed to keep trying despite the external pressures and disappointments. 

What I learned? I am not good enough...yet. I learned of some weaknesses (things I am doing) that are holding me back, the importance of the professional (hard working) mindset and the need for a positive (resilient/be better) attitude. I left Portugal with a new performance baseline, an understanding of where I am in my development, and a new goal to dedicate myself to training harder, overcoming my weaknesses and playing to my fullest potential. I believe that IDF will continue to provide me with the technical and developmental training to succeed. 

SEPH C, IDF PLAYER SINCE 2017