Getting To Know: Carlos Rincon
Meet Santa Monica's Men's Soccer Standout Carlos Rincon In An Exclusive Interview
Coach Tim Peirce enthusiastically follows the play from the sideline and yells to his players, “Do not play casual!” Carlos Rincon, Santa Monica College’s Men’s Soccer center midfielder, hears him loud and clear. He proceeds to score seemingly at will.
Sophomore, Carlos Rincon returns this Fall semester as a center attacking mid and left wing for the Corsairs. Currently, after three games, Rincon has fives-goals and plans to add to that total before seasons end.
Rincon’s history with soccer stems all the way back to his grandfather. “Everyone in my family plays soccer, I have three younger siblings and we all play. My dad used to play and he was even a professional referee in Mexico. My mom’s dad played. We all play and watch games together.” Rincon said. With the support of his family, he began to play as a young boy.
He is passionate about soccer and credits his love for the game. It keeps him wanting to improve himself. “The only motivation I have for the game is the fact that I love it so much," Rincon said.
One thing Rincon believes in is that it is not about him, but the team more than anything. “A successful season for me would be to help the team as much as I can whether its goals, assists or helping off the field I'll do it.” “I believe this team has the potential to win our conference and make a deep run into the playoffs." Rincon said.
Although Rincon is quite the team player, he has many accomplishments coming into SMC. “After high school, I was a top recruit, and I had many offers" Rincon said. Out of high school Rincon had offers to play soccer at Georgetown University, The University of Pennsylvania, and West Point Military Academy. Rincon was very thankful for those offers, but decided to take a different path that led him to Santa Monica College. “All I want is the chance to play at a Division 1 program, I should have took this chance a long time ago, to play for a top Division 1 program, but I never had a dream school so I took a different path." said Rincon. This year Rincon plans on taking the best offer he gets from a division one school.
Rincon uses the opportunity of playing for a community college to become a better individual on and off the field. He hopes to use his experience from Santa Monica College’s Men’s soccer team to propel him into his next athletic goal. “I can improve my strength, my physical strength a little bit for sure.” Rincon believes he is versatile, which makes him a unique player. “When I am not playing attacking mid and left wing, I play [a] free roam position so I can get as much as I can on the ball.” the sophomore said.
“I love everything about soccer," Rincon’s support from his family and his love for the game keep him motivated and have solidified his dedication. “... There is nothing like scoring a goal. It’s honestly one of the best feelings in the world and you just can’t beat that.”