“I would rather fail with ambition than succeed with nothing.”
– Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Among the leading games around the world, soccer is ranked the most major as it is known to be played by over 250 million people in more than 200 countries. It is particularly popular in Europe, Central and South America, and Africa, though it has a growing influence in North America and Asia. But the question arises: why is soccer deemed so important in multiple regions? Apart from strengthening one’s physical ability, it also emphasizes on building an individual’s valuable life skills, such as hard work, decision-making, problem-solving, and communication. Through healthy competition, it also teaches the importance of teamwork and cooperation, balanced by good sportsmanship.
Likewise, Ben Watson, born on August 22, 1997, in Sherman, Texas, has proven himself as a beacon of a quality sportsman. His transparency as a celebrated face in American soccer echoes tales of his journey from Texoma Christian School to international soccer leagues, validating his dedication and talent.
Growing up in Sherman, Texas, Watson was observed exhibiting his astonishing proficiency in the field of soccer from a very young age. He joined Texoma Christian School, leaving a memorable stamp of his legacy by setting the state scoring record with an impressive 61 goals during his senior year. This was just the commencement of his exciting journey.
Watson's excellence in both academics and athletics facilitated him to earn a scholarship to Northeastern State University. There, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance. Conspicuously, the Riverhawks made it to the national tournament twice, making it to the Elite Eight and the Sweet Sixteen stages under his leadership.
Watson's educational career was nothing short of stellar. During his tenure at Northeastern State, he earned several tributes, including Academic All-American, First Team All-Region, Newcomer of the Year, First Team All-Conference, and Second Team All-Region. These honors highlighted his all-around excellence as a student-athlete.
While still in college, Watson joined the Little Rock Rangers, where he was honored with immense victory as he won the Heartland Conference in front of a passionate crowd of over 10,000 fans. His significant contributions in his own domain earned him acknowledgment with NPSL National XI honors, NPSL Region XI, and NPSL Conference XI.
Moving on next, he took another major step in his career, as he was offered a prestigious position and signed a professional contract with Tasman United in the ISPS Handa Premiership in New Zealand. He made an unforgettable debut by scoring a goal in front of 6,000 fans, marking the beginning of his international soccer journey.
After a successful season with Tasman United, Watson joined Wairarapa United and also took on the captain's armband in the Central League of New Zealand, further bolstering his image as a steadfast leader on and off the field.
Enduring his international journey, Watson signed with the Danish 2nd Division club, Hillerød Fodbold, expanding his horizons and boasting his compliance as a player.
His rat race in his own field eventually brought him back to the United States, where he signed with Liga Puerto Rico side Sol FC. Watson's leadership skills were apparent as he captained Sol FC to the Liga Puerto Rico semi-finals.
The ultimate chapter of Watson's professional soccer career took place with Flower City Union in the National Independent Soccer Association in the USA. His flexibility and enthusiasm were put to the test when he played 90 minutes in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup against MLS team D.C. United. Watson retired at an early age due to his involvement in bringing a United Soccer League franchise to his hometown of Sherman, Texas.
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