A 10-year-old South Florida soccer fan is turning years of saving into a trip to the FIFA World Cup. Valentino Sanabria has been putting aside money since he was a child, hoping to one day attend a match in person.
“I play left wing or right wing. Sometimes striker, but I like the left wing,” Valentino said. “I’m fast and good at dribbling.”
Soccer runs in his family. He began playing at about age 5 and now competes on a club team. His grandfather, Jorge Serna, said with a laugh, “He lives football all day long.”
Valentino said his love for the game comes largely from his father, who is from Uruguay.
“We always watch Uruguay games, or really any games,” he said. Watching the 2022 World Cup on TV inspired him to set a goal.
“I loved the atmosphere,” Valentino said. “Everyone was chanting and having fun, and I wanted to be there.”
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To make that happen, he started saving cash, earning about $2 at a time for completing daily chores such as taking out the trash and making his bed.
“It’s not that much, but I kept doing it over time,” he said.
He also saved birthday money and earned additional income through acting jobs. His grandfather, Jose, said the dedication stood out.
“He’s been very focused and worked hard to save so he could go,” he said.
After nearly four years, Valentino saved enough to buy World Cup tickets for himself and his grandfather.
“It’s going to be worth it,” he said with a smile. Valentino is especially excited to watch his favorite team, Uruguay, and take in the experience.
“I want to see the players and the fans chanting,” he said. “I just want to be part of that atmosphere.”
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