About two weeks ago, Plant City High School head coach Caleb Roberts promoted sophomore forward Ariel Navarrete to a starter. It looks like that was a good idea, as Navarrete has been playing well ever since. On Dec. 9, for example, she netted five of her team’s eight goals in a shutout win at Lennard.
Tell me about that Lennard game.
It was a fun game. We’d been going through practices and, at first, I wasn’t a starter. Then, Coach (Roberts) finally gave me the chance to play. I really wanted to show him how good I was, and I really wanted to play good. I love my team – I just want to make them happy, and score goals.
Your team’s gotten off to a really good start this season. What’s the secret to success?
We have great captains that really show leadership, and they’re always encouraging us to do better. Even at halftime, our Coach always says, “This is what’s great about soccer: you get a whole ‘nother (sp?) half to do better.” The team is so positive.
What other sports do you play, besides soccer?
I was JV cheer captain for our school, also. I plan on playing flag football.
Have you ever played flag football?
Nope. I want to try new things and just be successful at everything.
What else do you do for fun, besides sports?
I go to church at River of God, and I’m really active there. That’s where I’m at most of the week. I do a lot of school work at church, and soccer after school.
What’s your favorite movie?
I love Forrest Gump. It’s funny to watch, and it’s a good movie. I never get tired of it.
What about TV?
I love Hart of Dixie. I can watch that over and over again on Netflix. Me and my brother literally watch that all the time.
Favorite book?
I like Copper Sun, by Sharon M. Draper.
What’s your favorite pro sports team?
Our family goes for a Spanish soccer team called America. We always cheer that team on.
If you could be rich or famous, what would it be?
Famous. Money doesn’t buy you happiness. When you’re rich, you get so self-centered that you don’t worry about others. But, when you’re famous, you have to worry about others.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
To cure cancer. Healing powers.
If you could meet anyone, and have a conversation with them, who would it be and what would you talk about?
Taylor Swift, definitely. I’m such a big fan. I don’t know – she’s just such a positive person. She loves absolutely everything she does. I’ve never heard about her doing bad things.
What are your personal goals for this soccer season?
Right now, I’m actually achieving it. I’ve always wanted to be a starter. I’ve always looked up to the starters. I’m like, “What can I do to be in that position?” … I just want to be a starter now, and show Coach that I can do good.