Most 21 year-olds are in college, trying to figure out their lives before they enter into the real world. They’re worried about relationships, finals, and money – or lack thereof.
Cyle Larin isn’t your ordinary 21 year-old. Sure he still has some of their worries, but his daily life is much different. While most 21 year-olds work at restaurants or fast food joints, Larin’s workday involves playing the sport he loves in front of 30,000 people.
Despite that big stage, none will be bigger than when Larin plays in his very first MLS All-Star Game on Thursday night.
“I feel good that I’ve made the All-Star team, that was one of my goals,” Larin said of his selection. “It’s just an honor to play with those players that are going to be there.”
But Larin wasn’t among the MLS All-Star Fan XI, which is the top eleven players selected by MLS fans for the game. He was chosen by the coach of the All-Star team, current San Jose coach Dominic Kinnear, based on his performance so far this season. Asked if that was a better feeling than being voted in, Larin said he thought it was.
“Yeah… the coach recognizing what I can do and that I can score, it feels good.”
Larin has been stellar this season. After coming on hot in the second half of the 2015 season and winning MLS Rookie of the Year honors, many expected a slump from the young Canadian forward. But through 18 games played, Larin has 9 goals and 3 assists, making him one of the most potent offensive threats in the league.
The 2016 AT&T MLS All-Star Game will be held Thursday, July 28, at 7:30 PM EDT in San Jose. The MLS side will be taking on English Premier League club Arsenal.
Larin, when asked to predict the score of the game, called a 3-2 win in favor of the MLS All-Star team. He hoped he’d get a goal for himself as well.
With the way he’s been blossoming as an MLS superstar, a score would be the perfect statement for a player as talented as Larin, and would show the world he’s ready for the big stage. It’ll be quite a big night either way for a 21 year-old.
But Cyle Larin isn’t your ordinary 21 year-old.
