AFC Richmond’s gregarious striker Dani Rojas lives by a single mantra: “football is life.” Turns out that’s also true for the man who plays him. Ted Lasso star Cristo Fernández has signed a contract with a professional soccer team.
In an example of real life mirroring reel life, El Paso Locomotive FC of the United Soccer League has announced (in news we first heard at ABC) its latest signing. It has reached a deal with forward Cristo Fernández. Normally we here at Nerdist don’t cover USL news, but we definitely do when an actor who plays a soccer player on a beloved show signs a deal to play the sport professionally.
“Cristo is a great addition to our roster, adding another attacking threat to our forward line,” said Locomotive Head Coach Junior Gonzalez, in a statement. “His passion for the game and leadership qualities for our locker room allow us to continue growing the positive culture we strive for as a club.”
Okay, okay, we know what you’re thinking: is this just a stunt? Maybe. In their release El Paso Locomotive FC noted that Fernández had to stop playing because of an injury at 15. That played a role in him pursuing acting. But according to the Ted Lasso star this is a very real opportunity for him to do something he loves. Here’s what he had to say about this deal and his dream to play professional soccer:
Fútbol has always been a huge part of my life and identity, and no matter where life has taken me, the dream of competing professionally never truly left my heart. I’m incredibly grateful to El Paso Locomotive FC – the club, coaches, staff, and especially my teammates – for opening the doors and giving me the opportunity to compete from day one.
This journey back to professional fútbol soccer is about believing in yourself, taking risks, and continuing to chase your dreams no matter how unexpected the path may be. Because as we say in Mexico: hay que seguirle echando ganas (let’s keep giving it our all). Siempre agradecido con Dios, mi familia y amistades por creer en mí. Maybe I’m just a crazy man with crazy dreams… so being here with the “Locos” actually makes perfect sense. ¡Vamos Locos!
That’s a long (though still wonderful) way of saying, “Football is life.” And like with Dani Rojas, we’ll be rooting for Fernandez’s team when he takes the pitch.