My First Playing Cards: A Footballer’s Journey Begins

From the moment I could walk, a football was glued to my feet. But before the trophies, the stadiums, the roar of the crowd, there were playing cards. Not just any cards, mind you, but my very own “1st Playing Cards,” a gift from my Opa (that’s grandpa in Dutch!). Each card displayed a different football skill – dribbling, passing, shooting – with a little cartoon Frenkie demonstrating how it was done.

Those cards weren’t just for fun, although we had plenty of that. Opa, with a twinkle in his eye, would turn every card game into a football lesson. “A strong pass, Frenkie, just like the Queen of Hearts!” he’d say, emphasizing the importance of accuracy. Or, “Control the ball like the King of Spades, always in command!” He’d use those cards to teach me about strategy, about anticipating your opponent’s move, about the mental game that was just as important as the physical one.

More Than Just Cards: Building a Foundation for Success

Looking back, those “1st playing cards” were more than just a game; they were my introduction to the beautiful game. They ignited a passion, instilled discipline, and planted the seeds of tactical thinking that I carry with me onto the pitch today. Every time I step onto the field, a part of me remembers those early lessons, those foundational skills ingrained through countless card games with Opa.

Dribbling Through the Deck: Mastering Ball Control

The Ace of Diamonds was all about dribbling. Opa would set up obstacles around the living room, using pillows, chairs, anything he could find. I’d weave through them, card in hand, pretending it was the ball, learning to maneuver my way through tight spaces, keeping the “ball” close.

Passing with Precision: The Art of Teamwork

The King of Hearts, as Opa would say, held the key to a perfect pass. “A good pass, Frenkie, sets up your teammate for success,” he’d emphasize. We’d practice passing, aiming for specific targets, understanding the importance of weight and timing. Those early lessons instilled in me the importance of teamwork, of how crucial it is to elevate your teammates.

Shooting for Glory: The Ace of Spades

And then there was the Ace of Spades, the goal-scoring card. Opa would hang a makeshift goal – sometimes just a coat hung over two chairs – and I’d take aim, imagining the roar of the crowd, the thrill of the goal. He’d talk about power, but also about placement, about outsmarting the goalkeeper.

From Playing Cards to Professional Pitch: A Legacy of Learning

Today, as I stand on the hallowed turf of Camp Nou, those early lessons learned through “1st playing cards” are still with me. They are the foundation upon which I’ve built my career, a constant reminder of where it all began.

Those simple cards taught me more than just football skills; they taught me about dedication, about perseverance, about the joy of the game. They are a cherished memory of my Opa and a legacy that I carry with me every time I step onto the pitch.