East County Athlete of the Week: Victor Marcano-Santos

Victor Marcano-Santos is a senior on The Out-of-Door Academy soccer team. He scored two goals in the Thunder's 4-3 overtime district championship win against Admiral Farragut High on Feb. 7. 

When did you start playing soccer?

I started playing when I was 3. My brother (Francisco Marcano-Santos) played soccer and I was interested in what he was doing. I decided to play, too.

What is the appeal to you?

I love the freedom of soccer. When the whistle blows and the game starts, nothing else matters. You are free of all the distractions in your life. It is an adrenaline rush, too.

What is your best skill?

I am loud on the field. I have an ability to energize people. For some reason, when I am on the field and I am yelling at my teammates, it brings a different energy, a different vibe. I think that helped pushed us to win districts this season. 

What is your favorite memory?

Winning districts this season was great because we had come so close in the past. It was a little different for me than for others, though. In the second half, I took an elbow to the head and got some lacerations. I did not know I was bleeding at first, but I had to come out of the game for a minute. Once they got it cleaned up, I came back and almost scored another goal. After the game, while others got to go celebrate, I had to go to the hospital to get stitches. This all happened on my birthday, too. It was a memorable day, for sure. 

What has been your biggest challenge?

I have been told 'no' a lot, ever since I can remember. Usually it is because of my size (Marcano-Santos is 5-foot-8), even though I am quick and good with the ball. For a long time, when I would be placed on either the A or B team of a club, I would always be on the B team. That lasted until I got to ODA. That always pushed me forward and made me work harder. It allowed me to grow, not only mentally but physically. 

What is your favorite food?

Well, my family is from Puerto Rico. I still have family there. Whenever I eat mofongo (a Puerto Rican dish made from fried plantains), it makes me think about them and brings me back to the times I have visited Puerto Rico. That is why it is my favorite. 

What is your favorite subject?

I like anatomy a lot. Things having to do with the human body interest me as an athlete. I like knowing which muscles are doing what, that kind of thing. 

Which superpower would you pick?

I considered flying, but I'm going to say super speed. I like The Flash. I would use it to get places quicker. 

Which person from history would you want to invite to a dinner?

I would invite Martin Luther King, Jr. I would love to talk with him about all sorts of things. That would be cool. 

What is the best advice you have received?

My family always says, 'If they are good, we are better.' That has always pushed me to become the best player I can be. 

Finish this sentence: "Victor Marcano-Santos is … " 

… Interesting. I'm quirky and all that, but in a good way.