When jetting around the country during the United Soccer League season, Tarek Morad reflects on where soccer has taken him: cities such as New York, Toronto and Montreal. The Louisville City FC defender also had reason to do so during the current offseason.
A college teammate of Morad’s — he attended UC Irvine — invited him to play for a United States team in the Pacific Cup, a week-long tournament staged in November on the South Pacific island of Fiji.
Morad was also asked to help fill out the roster. The first two players he ran into were former LouCity teammates Enrique Montano and Chandler Hoffman. They went as well.
“The team flew me out to Fiji,” Morad said. “I played a few games, had some fun exploring the island and the country — it was a pretty cool experience.”
The Americans advanced out of pool play and to the Pacific Cup semifinals before falling to eventual champion (and defending tournament winner) Nadi, a city in Fiji.
In between games, Morad took to horseback on the beach and explored an island nation famous for its tourism. He said the locals showed up strong to support players in the Pacific Cup with soccer, alongside of rugby, their favorite game.
“When I’m doing all these cool things because of a sport I grew up playing, I honestly think it’s pretty crazy to think about,” said Morad, who during his two seasons with LouCity has showcased dependability at a number of defensive and midfield positions. “Just kicking a ball around can take you places around the world many people don’t get the chance to visit in their lifetimes.
“I’m so fortunate to do what I love, get to travel the world, and continue to have fun. I don’t really consider soccer a job. Doing something I’m passionate about and getting paid for it is honestly a blessing.”
Now back in his native southern California, Morad has transitioned to a more high intensity version of training toward LouCity’s 2017 season. His workouts are often with other professional players, including sessions with Bryan Burke, the 2015 USL Defender of the Year and assists leader who suited up that year for LouCity.
There’s plenty of time for fun as well. Morad was in the audience for a taping of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” He has attended some weddings. Holidays were spent with family.
The 24-year-old has also taken to mentoring younger players.
“I don’t see my friends for eight, nine months out of the year, so I like to do some coaching to save up for fun activities and trips here or there,” he said. But, Morad joked, “Nothing like Fiji.”
