Claudio Reyna is known as one of the best American soccer stars of all time. During his time on the field, he served as captain of the United States Men’s National Team and played professionally in Europe.

Since he hung up his cleats in 2008, he’s dedicated himself to improving the lives of inner-city youth through the Claudio Reyna Foundation and building a soccer fan base in New York as sporting director of New York City Football Club. This Saturday, he will be at The Big Swim, where kids will have the opportunity to play games and take photos. We caught up with the soccer star and learned why he fell in love with the sport.

 

Where did you grow up?

I am from Springfield, New Jersey.

 

How did you get into soccer?

My dad is from Argentina, so that was his sport and he taught me how to play, but I also played other sports like basketball and tennis.

 

Did you play organized sports as a child?

I was a part of a youth soccer club, yes.

 

We know you’ve played soccer all over the world. What are some of the main differences between playing soccer in the U.S. and overseas?

You have to adjust to culture and language as well as adapt to being a professional soccer player. [It is one of the most popular sports in Europe, comparative to the fan bases of baseball and football in America.] More than anything, you get to play in countries that are crazy about soccer, so it is a totally different experience [compared to playing in the U.S.]. However, saying all that, the sport of soccer is growing rapidly [in the U.S.] with the U.S. National team, Major League Soccer and the New York City FC.

 

As the sporting director of New York City FC, you’ve been at the forefront of bringing a professional soccer club to New York City. How has the experience been?

It’s certainly been a journey to get here, but we have so much to look forward to because we are bringing professional soccer to New York City, and to be a part of that is great. I’m a part of many exciting soccer initiatives—not only our professional teams but [also] our youth teams and leagues. It is a club born out of the fabric of the city, and it is exciting to be a part of it.

 

What challenges have you experienced entering a new market?

We have certainly found a niche. We have our fans—16,000 ticket holders! At the same time, we are trying to build a stadium and other big items that will take some time. Right now we play at Yankee stadium, which is a great place to play in, so it is a nice home to have during our early years in MLS. (The Yankees are partners with New York City FC and own 20 percent of the team.)

 

What can organized sports bring to a child’s life?

Sports are a great pathway into life because eventually you have to learn how to work with other people, about teamwork and how to be a part of something bigger than you. They can [also] solve a lot of social issues—keeping kids out of trouble, keeping them focused on their sports as well as their school work. The benefits are so wide reaching that, for me, it’s almost a must that kids should play sports.

 

Along with being a professional soccer player, you are also active in the community. Can you tell us about the Claudio Reyna Foundation?

Sure. We target urban areas, using soccer as a vehicle to promote a healthy lifestyle. We do a lot of health fairs and clinics throughout New York and the country. We also have after-school programs and are closely connected with foundations that have the same mission.

 

What are your thoughts about swimming?

I grew up in a more urban area and didn’t have access [to swimming], but I knew I loved it. I wish I were better at it because it’s so good for you. It’s great for kids to learn, first and foremost. That message needs to be spread throughout the boroughs because a lot of kids may not have the opportunity to learn. But [it’s also great] for exercise; for the [little] impact it has on your joints. I did do some swimming when I was recovering from my ACL injury. It was the best moment when I could kind of go back and forth and do four laps! I had such an appreciation for swimmers as athletes after that.

 

Claudio’s Fun Facts:

Favorite Color: Sky blue

Favorite Sports Team: New York Yankees

Coffee or Tea: Coffee—I drink too much!

Favorite Meal: Chicken Milanese with an arugula salad—maybe with some pizza!

 

The Big Swim is a free swim meet for kids ages 6 to 12 who are not on a competitive swim team. No need to register! Show up this Saturday to be part of the fun! Click for details.