By Lizzy Tsuang
Circulation Editor
When she’s not solving word problems with a pencil in hand, Costa math teacher Lindsay Bullock has a soccer ball at her feet.
Bullock has been a member of the Women’s Premier Soccer League, a semi-professional competitive summer league, for the past three years. Bullock’s team, Beach Futbol Club, is based out of Long Beach and has weekly practices and games. The members of Bullock’s team range from high school students to post-graduate collegiate players.
“I love the fact that I can play competitively and that I am playing with younger girls who can learn from me,” Bullock said. “The girls I play with are great, and we have a special bond because we’re working together to accomplish a common goal.”
Bullock played in the American Youth Soccer Organization from age four to 11, moving on to play for a club team from age 12 to 17. As a former member of Mira Costa’s varsity soccer team, Bullock continued to play at California State University at Long Beach on a scholarship.
“Soccer is my first love and my true passion,” Bullock said. “Soccer has helped me become the person I am today by showcasing my ability to work hard, enabling me to express my feelings and building my character.”
Playing in the WPSL provides Bullock with exercise, fun and a chance to learn new skills. The league lets her reminisce about her fond college memories through the similar atmosphere and team structure.
“My college soccer experience was amazing, and I’ll always miss the camaraderie of the girls and the memories of the games,” Bullock said. “I have gained many friendships and learned from my teammates and coaches.”
In addition to playing in the WPSL, Bullock continues to pursue her love of the game by coaching Costa’s JV and varsity girls’ soccer teams. Bullock began her coaching career at Costa three years ago and began her teaching career last year. She believes coaching has been both rewarding and challenging, and she hopes to inspire players to find passion in the sport while helping to improve their skills.
“I want to help players see their strengths and improve upon their weaknesses,” Bullock said. “I want them to feel comfortable, communicate with me and push their boundaries to test their mental and physical ability.”
In the future, Bullock hopes to excel in all aspects of her career, both as a math teacher and as a soccer coach. She plans to continue her love for soccer by both playing and coaching and believes that education is just as important as athletics.
“All of the experiences I gained, obstacles I have overcome and knowledge I have learned has made me into the person I am today,” Bullock said. “I want to motivate my students and players by giving them the skills necessary to succeed in games or assessments. Coaching and teaching definitely go hand in hand.”
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