A Way of Life for Immigrants

“Soccer isn’t just a sport, it’s a way of life” says Joe Goral an immigrant that loves soccer. In 1972 Joe had an idea to immigrate to the United States from Poland. He knew nothing about the United States, but heard it was great here. Poland at that time was “dirty,” states Joe. Joe says that the Polish were dumping chemicals into the lakes and rivers, and not providing basic services like paved roads. However, he also had reasons that he didn’t want to leave Poland. His family wouldn’t be coming with him, and he did not know in America. Furthermore, Joe also had a well paying job in Poland plus a soccer team he played on. Despite all that, he still decided to go.

When Joe arrived on October 17, 1974, he did not know any english. His first job was to make bed sheets for a living. In addition, because he didn’t know english, everyday he would take a morning run to an English program where he spent three hours learning English. He also joined an immigrant soccer team. Joe says that “Because of soccer, I found a lot of friends in America,”. Joe developed a close relationship with his teammates. The soccer team made Joe feel more at home in America. Soon after, he got his citizenship in 1977. Joe believes that “America is built on immigrants”. This means that he thinks immigrants shape America. Many people agree with him which is why America is called the great melting pot. Soccer is a great way that immigrants connect with each other. America is now much more accepting of soccer because immigrants have come and forced it in to American culture. An example of this is the growing soccer leagues such as the MLS and USMNT programs. Joe is now retired, but he stills keep soccer in his life. He coaches soccer in Cheshire and is part of the same league as Bud Kohler.