D’Adamo: What have you enjoyed most about competing in high school athletics?

Ortiz: I enjoyed playing with our team. We all played together and went hard all the time. It was really fun when we won.

D’Adamo: At what point in your life did you begin playing sports?

Ortiz: I was 16 years old here at Calistoga, but I started when I was 10 years old in Mexico.

D’Adamo: Have you competed in any other sports besides soccer?

Ortiz: Volleyball for two years.

D’Adamo: What was it like growing up in Mexico where soccer is really big?

Ortiz: Soccer is very big. I learned how to play there.

D’Adamo: Speaking of coming here, what was it like as far as adjusting to the culture?

Ortiz: I see a lot of changes with the school and sports, but when I got on to the soccer team it was easy. Here in America we have more opportunities.

D’Adamo: Do you find that you get better grades during the season or after?

Ortiz: I almost couldn’t finish the season because of grades, then I started doing my work. My teachers gave me another chance.

D’Adamo: How much more motivated did you become knowing that your season might end because of grade issues?

Ortiz: It was very motivating because when they told me I couldn’t play, I started doing my work.

D’Adamo: What is your favorite class at Calistoga High?

Ortiz: I think English class.

D’Adamo: What do you enjoy most about it?

Ortiz: It helps me learn the language because when I came here I could not speak any English. Now I’m better at it.

D’Adamo: Who has been the most influential person in your life to this point?

Ortiz: My parents. They have always pushed me to keep going.

D’Adamo: What are your plans after high school? 

Ortiz: I’m not sure. I haven’t really thought about it, but I want to keep playing soccer.

D’Adamo: Name a historical figure, dead or alive, in or out of sports, you would like to meet.

Ortiz: (Soccer star) David Beckham.

D’Adamo: What would intrigue you about meeting him?

Ortiz: The experience he has and how can I be better.

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