How the World Cup helped me discover myself - Los Angeles Times
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Soccer

Comic: How fútbol put me on a road to discovering myself

A soccer player with a Mexico jersey celebrating with his hands out
(Joshua Sandoval )
By Joshua Sandoval
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Since I was 10 years old, fútbol has been a part of my life. I’ve met so many people because of the beautiful game, learned so much about myself through the beautiful game, and it has even played a part in creating opportunities in my career as a creative. I took this opportunity to pay homage to a game that is so much more than just that. Fútbol is life.

Soccer ball with words "gracias futbol" around it
(Joshua Sandoval / For The Times )

growing up as a no sabo chicano kid in a predominantly white neighborhood in the 90's was a very confusing time.
(Joshua Sandoval / For The Times )

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That all changes in 1994 when the world cup came to the united states
(Joshua Sandoval / For The Times )

in 1994 I had only played baseball, a sport my dad chose for me to play.
(Joshua Sandoval / For The Times )

It was the first time I had seen the Mexican national soccer team play on television. It gave me immense pride.
(Joshua Sandoval / For The Times )

I begged my dad to put me in AYSO. He was reluctant. And made me choose between drumming and futbol.
(Joshua Sandoval / For The Times )

I gave up drumming. I chose futbol I don't and never regretted the choice.
(Joshua Sandoval / For The Times )

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Soccer put me on the road to discovering myself. Finding my identity and appreciating my chicano heritage.
(Joshua Sandoval / For The Times )

Futbol motivated me to learn about my family history, especially those older relatives that only spoke Spanish.
(Joshua Sandoval / For The Times )

Futbol was the catalyst that pushed me to look for heroes beyond the pitch and learn about Latino & Chicano heroes.
(Joshua Sandoval / For The Times )

Joshua Sandoval is a co-owner and creative director of Born in June Creative Studio in East Los Angeles. An award-winning artist, he has collaborated with global brands such as Adidas and Walt Disney as well as local philanthropic groups such as the Weingart Foundation.

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