Fernando Alvarez is a sophomore on the men's soccer team at Judson University.  He is from Elgin, Ill.., and is a starter as a defender for the Eagles.  As a freshman, he helped Judson to a CCAC Championship and a NCCAA National Championship.

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Elgin, Illinois is home of the Judson Eagles. It is also home to freshman Fernando Alvarez. This 5'10'' soccer player has been in the game nearly his entire life. "I started when I was about six years old and I have gained experience and skill," Fernando tells.

Although Judson and Alvarez have Elgin as their hometown in common, Fernando shares that college was not always the game plan for his life. "Coach Burke and Assistant Coach Diego were able to offer me a scholarship to play here at Judson and have a career," he says. "And for that, I'm thankful this window of opportunity was available to me."

At Judson, Alvarez has learned what his strengths and weaknesses are. "I know what I have to work on for years to come and will push myself to the limit to be the best that I can be," he resolves. One of the best lessons he has learned in his college career is to never give up.

"I am a defensive player and I always keep this quote in mind, ‘Forwards win the games, defensive players win championships'. Being a defensive player puts a lot of pressure on me," he shares. "Everyone expects a defender to prevent the other team from scoring - which motivates me to make as few mistakes as possible," Fernando concludes.

Remembering these goals, along with excellent coaching and personal perseverance will help Alvarez achieve the pursuit of a higher level in soccer. "I like to introduce myself as a natural athlete," Fernando claims. "I can play any sport well, but my secondary sport to soccer is tennis," he adds. This, as well as many other sports, act as fun, non - school related activities for Fernando.

One of his favorite aspects of Judson soccer is the diversity amongst his teammates. "I like how many players are from different countries. I get to know about their backgrounds and how they came to Judson," says Fernando. He also greatly appreciates team devotions and prayer before games, "which helped having a 20-3 record," Alvarez quips.

He reveals that before games he will pray that God keeps him safe and injury-free. Alvarez has a passion when it comes to competing in soccer that he is confident will also carry over into his future career. The team's guest speakers have significantly challenged Fernando's thinking through the sharing of their own personal stories.

This has been a great year for soccer, and Fernando foresees the coming year as another great season. "It was a fun experience for me as a freshman to go to Nationals. I look forward to doing it again next season!"

Fernando Alvarez plans on being an integral part of Judson's bright future in soccer. "I'm a freshman," he concludes, "and I look forward to the next several years playing at the varsity level."