Junior Friedman overcomes obstacles

By Alyssa Zucker
Staff Writer

For some athletes, the road to success is harder than others. Junior soccer player Teddy Friedman’s struggle stems from being born without biceps in both arms.

With limited movement in his arms, Friedman is at a disadvantage for most sports. However, his condition does not hold him back from the sport he loves most, soccer.

“They way I run doesn’t look quite normal,” Friedman said. “But my condition doesn’t hold me back.”

According to Friedman, no one in the soccer program treats him differently because he is just as skilled as anyone else. Friedman played midfield for the Mira Costa junior varsity team last year, scoring two goals and assisting two others.

“Teddy is a nice kid to have in the program,” varsity coach Gary Smith said. “Even though he does not have full use of his arms, he doesn’t need them. He plays just as well as everyone else.”

Friedman has been playing soccer since the beginning of grade school. He started playing AYSO soccer, then moved on to play for different club teams around the South Bay.

“Soccer has always been my favorite sport,” Friedman said. “Costa soccer has been a great experience that I look forward to continuing for the next two years.”

Friedman uses his disability as motivation. He feels that he has become a stronger person because of it, and he will not let anything get in the way of his goals.

“He is a hard worker,” junior midfielder Vincent Licciardone said. “He is always competive and ready to play. Teddy is a great teammate to have, and a he’s a great soccer player.”