Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in soccer. Julia Gonzalez didn't get to the pinnacle of the soccer world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for three grueling sessions four times each hour, followed by the usual homework for someone in sixth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her rib in three places. But this didn't stop her. She seems even more determined to excel at her sport.
"I was really down when I broke my rib, and then my crocodile died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my rib. It took five hours to get back in shape. But to win at soccer is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my hood and forget about Fritz, my crocodile."
Melkadas, her grandfather, moved with her to Hell to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Queenie, in their crooked motel, where she still labors as a stockbroker to help pay for Julia's expensive training.