Santa Barbara United Team 2008

Megan

Megan Grajeda #17

Position: Forward, Defense
Birthdate: 25/4/95
Nickname: Meggie

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Hi! My name is Megan Jean Grajeda and I am a 13 year old honor student entering the 8th grade at Cabrillo Middle School in Ventura, California. Unlike many kids my age, I like school — particularly math. During the summer months, when I am not in school, I volunteer as a CIT (Counselor in Training) at the Port Hueneme Youth Center on the Naval Base. This is my second year volunteering and it has been very rewarding.

In my spare time, cooking is something I really enjoy. I like to watch the Food Channel to learn how to create and prepare new dishes. I also like to eat out at restaurants and enjoy all types of foods (well, except fish; I don't like fish). I would have to say, though, my favorites are probably Japanese Hibachi Steak, Chicken, & Lobster prepared by chefs right in front of you. Yep, that is definitely the best and most fun to watch. Besides my own activities, I am an avid sports fan and am probably my 15 year old brother Joshua’s #1 fan…well when in comes to football and baseball, that is. I really enjoy watching him (and his friends) play.

Besides my brother, my family consists of my dad, Alfredo, my mom, Bridget, and of course my Golden Retriever, Cody. We love to travel and my mom, brother, and I have traveled together to many places, including Hawaii, New York and Mexico but never to Europe. I'm the lucky one.

So, when I'm not in school, a CIT, watching TV, cooking, at my brother's games, or traveling, I find time to play a little soccer…O.K…a lot of soccer. It is true that I have a wide variety of interests; however soccer is definitely my favorite. I have been playing soccer since I was old enough to play — 4 ½ years old. I currently play for the Oxnard Waves Soccer Club where my dad is the coach. I love to play soccer because it is so exciting and challenges me to do my best. I have been fortunate enough to have played on several All-Star and Travel/Tournament teams for AYSO but, although all my experiences have been great, never in my wildest dreams did I think I would play on this awesome Santa Barbara United Team that is headed to Norway. The girls on this team are all so very talented and are really cool people. It has been great getting to know them and their families and I am sure we will be life long friends! What a bonus it is to go to Europe to play my sport, to represent the U.S., and to meet new friends. It is truly an honor to be a part of this group and I am extremely excited!

Thank You in advance to the Lillehammer families that are gracious enough to host us. I am anxious to meet you and learn about your Country. Lastly, I want to shout out a huge Thank You to my family and friends for being so supportive and making this once-in-a-life time experience a reality. I hope to make you all proud. You are all awesome!

Go Santa Barbara United — Go United States!