Everything Haji has learned about life has been with a ball at his feet. From the moment he and his family left Kenya as refugees during the Somalian Civil War, to when they arrived in America, futbol has given him the opportunity to achieve his own american dream. It has come with a price, as there have been numerous obstacles between him and the beautiful game. Whether it was learning a new language by watching Clifford the Big Red Dog, to getting rides to tournaments because his father was not able to drive on the highway, as well as his academic struggles, Haji never gave up. He is a shining example of how persistence, ambition, and love for the game can overcome adversity. Now, at the age of 19, Haji has been selected No. 2 overall in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft. His professional soccer career will begin with the San Jose Earthquakes. Haji is the an authentic Futbolr ready to pursue his dream playing the beautiful game.
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Directed & Produced by: Mabricio Wilson Edited: Trevor Banks
Matheau Hall The Mentor
Since the beginning of the academic school year, Hall has decided to volunteer his time at elementary schools across Norfolk, for the simple task of being a positive influence in young kids' lives.
Hall spent time at the after-school (and sometimes before-school) programs at Bayview, Crossroads and Richard Bowling Elementary schools one month at a time, coming three times a week over a three-week span.
All of which he did on his own time while unpaid.
“There shouldn’t be a price for that. It shouldn’t be 'Pay me 100 dollars and I'll teach them,'" Halls said.
He hopes kids see him as more than just a soccer coach. He hopes kids see him as more of a mentor and positive influence than anything else.
