PLAYER PROFILE: Felipe Hideki
A fan favorite, with kids usually yelling “FE-LI-PE! FE-LI-PE!” at the top of their lungs, Felipe Hideki had a lot to say about his Brazilian culture’s impact on his life both at home and here in the United States. In preparation for Latin Heritage Night on Wednesday, the USL League Two’s #22 prospect is our latest Latino player to be highlighted with a Q&A.
Why did you start playing soccer when you were younger? Was this decision impacted by your culture?
A: Because in Brazil soccer is more than just a popular hobby, it is our ultimate passion. My first toy when I was a kid was a soccer ball and everyone in my family always motivated me to play soccer.
What are some of the main differences between playing for clubs/leagues in Brazil versus the US?
A: The American soccer is more physical, while the Brazilian soccer is more technical and skillful. Also, soccer in Brazil is the main sport, while here soccer has to compete with baseball, basketball and football.
What was the most difficult part of adjusting to a new culture in coming to the US? What was the easiest?
A: Learning a different language and experiencing a new culture were the most difficult part for me. I would say that soccer was the easiest and it also helped me to overcome the most difficult parts of adapting to the American culture.
Do you have any traditions or customs that you brought to the US relevant to soccer? I.e. game day traditions
A: It is not a tradition, but if my game is live streamed, I always send it to my parents because they love watching me playing.
What do you miss the most about Brazil while being in the US?
A: I miss being around my family and friends, especially when there is some celebration back home. Also, I cannot forget the food and the futsal pickups I used to play.
What are some of the most important aspects of your culture to you personally?
A: Never giving up is the most important aspect of my culture to me.
How has adopting to US culture impacted your daily practices? I.e. diet, religious practices, social patterns, language, etc.
A: The US culture has impacted my personality in so many ways. I have learned things related to soccer and personal life, such as how to take care of my body, being punctual, focusing on my studies.
Have you had to address any misconceptions about your culture while in the US? Were there any circumstances where you had to face stereotypes or prejudice?
A: I would not say misconceptions, but there are some Americans that are more patient with foreign people than others.
If there was one aspect of Brazil you could bring to the US, what would it be?
A: I would bring the passion that Brazilians have for soccer.
Is there anything about the US that you haven’t been able to understand or adapt to during your time here?
A: I cannot think about anything I haven’t been able to adapt during my time here.
Did your culture impact your decision to pursue professional soccer?
A: 100%. I have never thought about pursuing any other career besides playing professional soccer.
