Today, we are thrilled to interview Bella Alamo (Sting Dallas Black ECNL 07), who recently attended a training camp with the U-17 Philippine National Team. Bella is a young and promising athlete who has shown exceptional skills and determination. In this interview, we will get to know more about her experience and insights on being a part of the national team and her journey in becoming an elite athlete. 

How does it feel to be selected to attend the training camp with the U17 Philippine women’s national team?

It is an honor to represent my country and contribute to the growth of Philippine soccer. It is an exciting experience playing internationally with players all over the world. 

What inspired you to pursue a career in soccer, and how long have you been playing the sport?

I started playing soccer when I was 3 and became more involved, playing club at 6. Growing up, both my dad and older sister played soccer. Watching their games made me excited about the sport, influencing me to pursue a career in soccer. 

Can you describe your style of play and how you think it can contribute to the team’s success?

As a midfielder, I strive to keep the ball to calm the game down when chaotic while also taking advantage of attacking situations using my explosiveness. As an outside winger, I love using my speed to pass defenders and cross to assist or cut inside and shoot. These aspects of my game can create dangerous threats when it comes to scoring or assisting goals. 

What are some of the challenges you have faced in your soccer career so far, and how have you overcome them?

When I was younger, I was overlooked by my coaches as I would not get much playing time as I had hoped. However, the people around me encouraged me to push myself and gain confidence on the field by working harder and getting stronger. Confidence plays a huge part when it comes to succeeding in a sport. When I moved to the Philippines for 2 years back in 2018, soccer was not as competitive as the US and it allowed me to gain that confidence on and off the ball. I continue to work harder every day and push myself to get better. 

What are you hoping to achieve during the training camp with the U17 Philippine women’s national team, and how do you plan to work towards those goals?

During this training camp, I hope to take my experience with world class coaches in international soccer and use the tools they taught us back in my teams in the US. I also want to continue to be called up to future tournaments with this team and even reach the women’s senior team. To reach these goals, I plan to work hard and put my everything on the field during international soccer games. 

What do you think are your strengths and weaknesses as a soccer player, and how do you plan to improve upon them during the training camp?

As a soccer player, I am quick, smart, and creative but I need to improve on my shooting accuracy. During this camp, I expect to be training everyday with world class coaches who can give my advice on how to improve my shooting technique 

How do you handle pressure and stress during important games, and what strategies do you use to stay focused and motivated?

I like to watch my past highlights and listen to music. I use the mentality to play like this is my last game and to put everything on the field. 

What do you think are the most important qualities for a successful soccer player, both on and off the field?

Confidence and discipline are the most important qualities because you have to be able to believe you can do something in order to achieve it. Discipline is also key to working harder and striving to get better. 

How do you balance your soccer training with your other commitments, such as school or work?

Free time is very limited during the season so whenever I get that free time, I use it productively by doing schoolwork. If I am done with my schoolwork, I look to see what I can do to help improve my game, even if it’s a small thing like looking at game film.

What are your long-term goals for your soccer career, and how do you plan to achieve them?

In the future, I want to continue to be able to play internationally for the Philippines. I also want to continue my soccer career after high school in college soccer. I plan to continue to use the tools I learn in every practice and game that will help in my future career as a soccer player.