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Chargers men's soccer sophomore Santiago Palacio in his home country of Colombia.
Chargers men's soccer sophomore Santiago Palacio in his home country of Colombia.
Posted: Oct 04, 2022

Hispanic Heritage Month Q&A With Chargers Men’s Soccer Player Santiago Palacio

BY ZACH AUSTIN
 Carl Sandburg College

GALESBURG — Hispanic Heritage Month takes place each year from Sept. 15-Oct. 15. Carl Sandburg College has several student-athletes that hail from Hispanic and Latino countries or are of Hispanic/Latino descent. We sat down with Chargers men's soccer sophomore Santiago Palacio — a native of Cali, Colombia — to ask him what Hispanic Heritage Month means to him and how being Hispanic helps define who he is as a player and person.

How has being a part of the Hispanic community shaped you as a student-athlete?
 I put a lot of intensity into my heart playing soccer, and I want to show leadership everywhere at this college. Something that really characterizes me as being Hispanic is wanting to be a leader, and all I want to do is win.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
 I am proud of being Hispanic, and I think it is beautiful that I can say that in this community. I believe that Hispanics are very helpful and kind, and we love to be happy and are always laughing.

Who is your favorite Hispanic athlete?
 Diego Maradona (the legendary soccer player from Argentina). He was the best player in history. He was a leader and was always fighting to encourage his teammates, and it inspires me to lead and make the team want to be here and win. Every time I go on the field I want to lead and encourage my teammates.

What is a cultural value that is important to you?
 I love my family, and family is No. 1 for me. Everything I do is for my family. My family is the reason I am here, and they motivate me through every step I take.

How does the sport you play have an impact on Hispanic heritage?
 Soccer has a big impact on the Hispanic community. Soccer is the main sport in my country, and soccer has had a big opportunity for people to make money and help their families. Where I come from there are a lot of poor families, and soccer is a big opportunity for them to do what they love, take away the bad things and turn them into good things.