For eight-year-old Mateo, soccer is more than just a game: it is a way of bringing people together.
Through Team IMPACT, Mateo, who lives with cerebral palsy, was matched with Carroll University men’s soccer in 2025. Joining this team provided him with a group of teammates who share his love for soccer, including a special bond with his teammate, Matthew.
While Mateo and Matthew face a language barrier, that has not stopped them from forming a meaningful connection.
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“Matthew is being very attentive with Mateo even though they have the language barrier,” Mateo’s family shared. “They still communicate and share a lot of different forms of communication with each other.”
Their friendship reminds us that some of the strongest bonds are formed through action, not words. Matthew has found ways to make Mateo feel welcomed and included as a member of the team through experiences, patience, and genuine care.
Something they never need assistance to communicate about is their love for the game.
Whether they are spending time together on the field kicking around the ball, or cheering on the team together, soccer has become a common language between them. Soccer provides a way to connect, have fun, and create memories that go beyond any language differences.
Matthew’s kindness is reflected in the way he has created an environment where Mateo feels supported and celebrated. The team surprised Mateo with a birthday video on his most recent birthday. The thoughtful gesture showed just how much he means to the program and how invested the players are in making him feel like part of their family.
For Mateo, Carroll Men’s Soccer is more than a team. It’s a place where he can share his love of soccer, build lasting relationships, and be surrounded by people who care about him.
And for Matthew and Mateo, their friendship proves that kindness, laughter, and a shared passion can speak louder than words ever could.