By Celia Blanco Pérez
Soccer is not just about winning or losing—it’s about the friendships, the memories, and the feeling of being part of something bigger. At CIS University, the team has become a second family for many players, helping them settle into university life and making lifelong connections. This season has been especially memorable, as the team became champion of the Madrid “Fútbol Emotion MF7 League” and runner-up of the “Futbolempresas League.” We caught up with Konrad Krysztoforski, an international student from the US, and Pedro Rosa, a local student in his last year at CIS University, to hear about their journey with the team. They share what the sport really means to them and how it has shaped their time at our campus.
What made you decide to join the soccer team? Was it something you had in mind before starting at CIS University?
Konrad: I play soccer at Endicott College in the US, so it was important for me to continue playing while I study abroad. I knew I would sign up before coming to CIS University because soccer has always been a big part of my life. It helps me stay grounded and connected, no matter where I am.
Pedro: I always knew I wanted to continue playing soccer at the university, and Nacho Campo convinced me to join the team. It was the perfect opportunity to stay active and be part of a competitive, yet fun environment.
Do you remember your first match with the team? What was your first impression?
Konrad: I remember my first match with the CIS University 7v7 team. I had a great time, and I was very happy. The team was super welcoming, and I could tell right away that the vibe was positive. Everyone was supportive, and that made me feel comfortable from the start.
Pedro: My first match wasn’t great, I was nervous and didn’t perform well. However, that only motivated me to keep improving and work harder to integrate into the team.
Has the team helped you integrate better into university life and make new friends?
Konrad: I think so, yes. Although I played with a lot of my previous friends, I was able to connect and make new friends who I saw at school as well. It made it easier to find my place at CIS University because having that shared experience on the field translated to stronger bonds off the field too.
Pedro: Definitely. Meeting new people through soccer made settling into our university much easier. Once I built friendships within the team, the games became even more enjoyable.
How would you describe the chemistry within the team?
Konrad: The chemistry is excellent. Not every game has the same group of people, but everyone who I have played with has been very inviting and willing to play together. It feels like we all have a shared understanding and respect for each other’s style of play, which makes it easy to connect on and off the pitch.
Pedro: The chemistry is strong, especially since some of us have been playing together for years. At the same time, we’re always open to welcoming new players.
What kind of relationships have you developed with your teammates off the field?
Konrad: Soccer created great relationships. Whenever I see any of my teammates off the field, I say hello and have a quick chat. I am always happy to see my teammates. Sometimes we hang out or grab food together, and those moments make the bond even stronger. It’s nice to have that sense of community.
Pedro: Our friendships go beyond the pitch. No matter the result, we always make time to meet up after matches, which has helped build a strong sense of team.
You’ve competed in two leagues: “Madrid Fútbol Emotion MF7” and “Futbolempresas.” What has your experience been like in each one?
Konrad: I haven’t really noticed much of a difference. It doesn’t matter the competition, I always show up to compete and enjoy the game. The main goal is to give my best, and whether it’s “Madridfutbol7” or “Futbolempresas,” the challenge and excitement are the same.
Pedro: Both leagues are well-organized since they’re run by the same people, but “Madridfutbol7” is particularly special because it was the first league we ever competed in.
What did winning the “Fútbol Emotion MF7 League” championship mean to you?
Konrad: It means a lot. Reaching any type of final match is an achievement in my book and winning is even better. It shows that the hard work we’ve put in as a team has paid off. Getting that far proves we have something special as a team.
Pedro: It’s an incredible feeling because it reflects all the hard work and dedication we’ve put in as a team. Every knockout match was filled with tension and excitement, which made the journey even more rewarding.
What has been the most exciting moment of the season for you?
Konrad: My first hat-trick, which included three-headed goals. I was very happy and my teammates were very happy for me as well. It was one of those games where everything just clicked, and knowing that my teammates were genuinely excited for me made it even more special.
Pedro: Winning the final was by far the best moment. Reaching another final was already an achievement, but lifting the trophy after such a tough competition made it even better.
How has playing with international teammates impacted you?
Pedro: Having teammates from different nationalities has made the experience even better. It’s given me the chance to learn from different cultures and perspectives, both on and off the field.
As an international student, how has soccer influenced your process of adapting to a new country and culture?
Konrad: Soccer is everything for me. It is an international sport that is known for bringing people together. I am very happy to be able to play here and it has certainly helped me adapt to Spain and the Spanish culture. It’s a universal language – once you’re on the field, it doesn’t matter where you’re from. That connection through the game made it easier to adjust and feel at home.
What have you learned from this experience with the team?
Konrad: I’ve learned that there is no bigger joy than competing with my friends and that I am able to really express myself with a ball at my feet. It’s also taught me about resilience and teamwork – knowing how to stay composed under pressure and trust my teammates no matter the situation.
Pedro: Personally, I’ve learned that having a shared objective strengthens bonds that can last for years. Athletically, I’ve realized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to perform well and contribute to the team.
Will the skills and values gained help you in life outside soccer?
Konrad: Of course. I think every experience has an influence on personal development. I created new friends and experiences that I’ll remember for the rest of my life. Soccer has taught me about leadership, communication, and handling challenges – all things that will help me in my personal and professional life.
Pedro: Absolutely. Learning how to create a strong and united team with people from different backgrounds is a valuable skill, not just in soccer but in any professional or social setting.
If you could relive one moment from this season, which one would it be and why?
Konrad: Winning the final for sure. It was so much fun and we were all so thrilled with the win. The energy and excitement after the final whistle was incredible – hugging my teammates and celebrating together was a moment I’ll never forget.
Pedro: I’d relive the first final we lost. It was a tough and disappointing moment, and if I had the chance to replay that match, I’d love to change the outcome.
What does this team mean to you beyond wins and losses?
Konrad: I love playing soccer. At the end of the day, no matter the result, playing the beautiful game is a joy and I am so glad I am able to be a part of this team. The friendships and the feeling of being part of something bigger than myself – that’s what matters most.
Pedro: For me, this team feels like a family. Many of us have played together for years, and even after leaving university, some still find the time to come back and play. That shows how special this team is to all of us.
What advice would you give to future players joining the team?
Konrad: I would just say that if you enjoy playing soccer, there is no better decision than to join the team. Enjoy every moment and keep a smile on your face because you never know when your last match will be. Trust your teammates, give it your all, and remember that the memories you make will last long after the final whistle.
Pedro: Stay committed and don’t let the team fade away. There are moments when players have less time or motivation, but consistency is key. This team is something truly special, and keeping it alive is worth the effort.
