Catalina Perez Reflects on Olympic Experience
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Redshirt junior goalkeeper Catalina Perez of the University of Miami soccer team recently returned from Brazil, where she was a part of the Colombian Women’s National Team for the 2016 Olympic Games.
Originally from Bogota, Colombia, Perez attended St. Andrew’s School in Boca Raton, Fla., before coming to Miami. The 5-foot-8-inch Perez was one of just 13 active Division I women’s soccer players, including one of two from the ACC and the only goalkeeper, in the Olympics, per Top Drawer Soccer.
Days after getting back to Miami, goalkeeper Perez wrote a diary entry for HurricaneSports.com describing her experience at and leading up to the Olympic Games . . .
Four years ago, I was the last player cut from the Colombian Olympic roster. In other words, 18 players traveled and I was the 19th player on the list. It was difficult and sad to watch my teammates leave to London, while I stayed in Colombia. I remember watching them on TV and saying to myself that in four years, I would be there. I would do whatever it took to be in the Olympics. As a result, I was motivated from that day forward. I believe being cut four years ago was the start of my Olympic story and I hope it is not over yet.
When I was pre-selected for the London Olympic Games in 2012, I was very young and I did not know exactly what I was getting into. What followed were long months of intense training and many difficult moments, during which my small Olympic hope kept me going. When I was cut on the last day, it hurt badly because of the deep desire and hope I had created within me. I remember on that day, the coach begged me not to quit playing soccer. I was confused as to how he could even think I wanted to quit. During the last four years, I had thought that all of that process could not have been for nothing; it was all part of my preparation for the future. It is one of the reasons I was fortunate to have participated in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.
When I felt nervous or anxious leading up to or during the games, I comforted and reminded myself that I have been working at this for years. Although time seemed to be going by slowly due to all the pressure mounting, I knew I needed to enjoy and cherish this opportunity to the fullest because I know how it feels to be on the other side, at home watching and hoping.
Everything, small or large, about the Olympics was exciting. When we first arrived at our hotel in Belo Horizonte, it was very exciting to see the other three teams in our group staying there, as well. Although we were all competing against each other for two or three spots to advance to the next round, there was a sense of camaraderie between everyone. We would all greet each other, even the coaches. Many players were good friends with other teams’ players and they showed it. We were focused, yet very happy to be a part of the Olympic Games. As a result, the atmosphere was very unique. At night, it was nice to see players spending time with their loved ones in the lobby. It reminds you that we are all alike in many ways.
I was very fortunate to have my family supporting me in Brazil. I could not have gotten to the Olympics without them. Thus, it was extremely special to share the experience with them. Even my grandfather, who is of older age, came to see me because he knew how much I dreamt of that moment and how much it meant to me. After our last game, I found them in the stands and I ran up to give them a hug and thank them for everything. They have been with me through all the ups and downs, they know my whole story and all of my dreams, and they have kept me going each time. It was one of the best moments of the experience for me and I will cherish that forever.
The matches were very intense. The three teams in our group were very strong: France, New Zealand, and the USA. We knew all the games would be challenging and physical. We had to play our style, building the attack with passes on the ground because we were shorter and smaller than them. It really exposed me to very high-level soccer. I further realize each time that it is not just about playing hard, it’s about playing smart. The players are fit, attentive to what is needed of them, their runs are intelligent and their management of game situations is superior. You also notice that it is not easy for anyone. Although on TV it looks like all fun and games, it’s filled with challenges on and off the field.
All in all, the 2016 Rio Olympics were an amazing experience. I am very grateful to have had the honor of representing my country. Thank you very much to everyone at the University of Miami who has made this possible for me. I am very grateful to have been given the opportunity to go the training camps and the Olympics, while remaining enrolled as a full-time student. I am well aware that it takes a special institution to support me and guide me as the University of Miami has. Thank you so much to my coaches for preparing me and supporting me every step of the way.
It is hard to believe the Rio Olympics are already over because that has been the main focus in my life for so long. Although being part of the Olympic Team was great, I dream of doing more and advancing further. I now have more tools and motivation to continue on this journey. I am determined to go back to the Olympics to continue Colombia Women’s Soccer Olympic story and my own.
Thank you for your support. Go Canes!
