The Colorado Springs Switchbacks: A Global Soccer Journey
Introduction to the Team
The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC is more than just a soccer team; it’s a melting pot of talent from around the globe. Among its standout players are Jonas Fieldberg from Norway and Juan Tejada from Panama, each bringing unique experiences and perspectives to the pitch. Their journeys highlight the diverse paths athletes take to reach their dreams in the world of soccer.
Jonas Fieldberg: From Norway to Colorado
Growing up in the picturesque surroundings of Oslo, Norway, Jonas Fieldberg’s passion for soccer was ignited at a young age. "I started playing soccer when I was four. I’ve always been around soccer because my dad was a coach for our local team," Fieldberg recalls. His early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for a career that would take him far from home.
At just 15, Fieldberg joined the team his father coached, marking the beginning of his soccer journey. "It was always going to be the natural path for me to at least play soccer to a certain level," he reflects. Seeking new challenges, he made the bold decision to leave Norway and pursue his education and soccer career at the University of Dayton in Ohio.
Adapting to American Soccer
Fieldberg’s transition to American soccer was eye-opening. "The level that I thought I was going to come into compared to what I actually came into was a lot higher than I expected," he admits. The differences in playing style were stark. "It’s a completely different game. It’s not as technical in college as it was back in Norway," he explains.
He quickly learned that American soccer demanded a different skill set. "The tireless running, the fact that they stop the clock when the ball is out—these were very unfamiliar to me," Fieldberg shares. To succeed, he realized he needed to adapt his game. "I really had to just get a lot more physical than what I was," he says, a change that ultimately paid off as he now thrives in his third season with the Switchbacks.
Juan Tejada: Embracing New Challenges
Teammate Juan Tejada’s journey from Panama to the U.S. mirrors Fieldberg’s in many ways. Growing up in the warm, humid climate of Panama, Tejada developed a love for soccer that was deeply ingrained in his community. "Everybody just comes together Friday, Saturday and plays together, and that’s something that I really love and I really miss," he reflects on the camaraderie of soccer back home.
Upon moving to the United States, Tejada noticed significant differences in the approach to the sport. "The big difference… here… there’s a lot more seriousness towards the athlete," he explains. The emphasis on fitness, nutrition, and overall professionalism was a revelation for him. "All of this stuff I learned when I came here has helped me a lot," he adds.
Cultural Connections and Personal Sacrifices
Both Fieldberg and Tejada maintain strong ties to their home countries. Fieldberg makes it a point to return to Norway for Christmas, cherishing the time spent with family. "It’s important for me to stay connected to my roots," he says. Meanwhile, Tejada often visits Panama to reconnect with family and friends, where soccer remains a central part of his life.
Looking Ahead: The Switchbacks’ Season
As the Colorado Springs Switchbacks approach the end of their regular season, the excitement builds. With just a few games left, the team is gearing up for their next match against the Charleston Battery. The camaraderie among players like Fieldberg and Tejada, combined with the support of their passionate fans, creates an electric atmosphere that is palpable both on and off the field.
The stories of Jonas Fieldberg and Juan Tejada exemplify the rich tapestry of experiences that define the Colorado Springs Switchbacks. Their journeys not only highlight the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a soccer career but also the deep connections forged through the love of the game.
