Everardo Velador has interests that extend beyond the soccer field. In fact, you would have to go as far back as ancient Greece.
When asked what time period he would like to visit, the 17-year-old perked up and mentioned his love for studying the likes of Plato and Alexander the Great.
“328 B.C.,” Everardo said, specifically.
When he doesn’t have his head in the books, Everardo competes with his Southwest High School Unified soccer teammates. The group, made up of six Special Olympics Southern California athletes and four Unified partners, is gearing up for this summer’s 2018 Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle.
Everardo’s journey onto the soccer field didn’t come without a few obstacles. When he was 8, the San Diego native underwent the first of two hip surgeries. Everardo is grateful for the opportunity to play soccer and be part of this group.
“It’s a miracle,” he added. “It’s great, the best.”
Get to know more about Everardo and his interests: