Webb City senior Eduardo Mejia has built his soccer journey on family, perseverance and the tight bonds of the Cardinals program. The 12th grader has become a steady presence for Webb City, pairing a quiet work ethic with a love for the game that stretches back to his childhood.

Mejia first played organized soccer for two years in elementary school before stepping away, only to rediscover the sport when he arrived in high school. Since then, he has grown into a reliable player who understands both the challenges and rewards that come with competing at a high level. He said the toughest position on the field is center midfield, a spot that demands constant movement, vision and composure.

His foundation, though, starts at home. Mejia said his dad has always been his biggest inspiration, making sure he had everything he needed to play and pushing him to perform his best. “Since I was little, he would always make sure I have everything needed for the sport, always showed support, and wanted to see me always be able to perform my best,” Mejia said.

That support system also includes his younger brother, Kevin, who has made a lasting impression on Eduardo’s outlook. Mejia said Kevin is not a teammate on the roster, but someone he looks up to and carries with him every time he takes the field.

In the classroom, Mejia’s favorite subject is math, and he points to Mrs. Robertson as his favorite teacher from his school years. Away from school and matches, he keeps things simple, spending his free time hanging out with friends and playing more soccer.

Above all, the sport has taught Mejia a lesson he plans to carry long after his high school days are over. “Don’t give up,” he said, summing up the mindset that has guided him through his soccer career and his time at Webb City High School.