today 10:55
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Transfers are not unusual in the life of footballers. In the summer and winter season, some players will change club addresses, not only between professionals, but also between amateurs or juniors and teenagers.
It is even customary to talk about the transition in life, figuratively speaking, even on the wedding day of athletes. But what kind of transfer is it when a player decides to end his football career and embark on a priestly path?
Adam Štefanec is 25 years old and in his teens he was not only a talented midfielder but also a representative of Slovakia’s youth team and captain of Slovan Bratislava teens. He is the champion of Slovakia in the under 15 category. Furthermore, he comes from a footballing family: his grandfather, his uncle, his father and his younger brother wore football boots.
“My brother and I were key players in midfield in Slovan’s nineteen years. They bought us as reinforcements, we played every game until then. On the other hand, they knew that I am religious and close to God.” stated in telling his life story for Plus ONE DAY.
He gave up on a promising football career when he was only 19. Before I was in the spotlight, I also played in the youth national team. I was fine and suddenly a shock came. I did not play.
Maybe if it had come at a time when I had no doubts about my football career, I wouldn’t have made such a decision. However, it was easier for me. I haven’t had to make a decision for a long time “, Adam Štefanec continues to tell his story.
“It was a big leap and a big difference. The world of sport is much freer than the conservative ecclesiastical environment and I had to give up several things, but I am convinced that I made the right decision. Before I did not think at all of becoming a priest , but after meeting God I had no doubts.
It was a powerful moment for me. I knew it was meant only for me. An offer came and I accepted it. I have discovered another path and I would be a fool not to follow it now that I know it is better for me. “ quotes his words Plus ONE DAY.
Today he is 25 years old and still has one year in the seminary. He is not yet a priest, but he can baptize, marry or celebrate funerals. “I am aware that I will not have a wife and children. I know what I am getting into. I am ready for it. Even in football it is a bit true that if you really want to dedicate yourself fully and progress, girls have to step aside. In a way , for me it was already a kind of celibacy. Not everyone understood it, it confused some boys “, thought the native of Žilina.
Adam Štefanec adds that he only plays football on Mondays. “With people from the parish. We will also run for beer afterwards”, he concluded with a smile on his lips.
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