My Strong Interest in Football. Reading.

Reading Comprehension. II Term.

My Strong Interest in Football

My name is Alex, and I am sixteen years old. Football is still my big interest. I first started playing when I was only eight. I remember my dad taking me to the park every weekend. He showed me how to kick the ball and pass it. Now, I play for my school team. We practice two times a week, and we play games against other schools on Saturdays.  

I really like being part of a team. It's good to work together with other players to try and win. We have a very good coach who always helps us and makes our skills better. Football is not just about running and kicking; you also need good teamwork and a plan.  

My admiration in the world of football is reserved for the legendary Lionel Messi. I am consistently impressed by his extraordinary talent on the field and his seemingly effortless ability to maintain complete control over the ball, even in the most challenging situations. I make a point of watching his matches whenever the opportunity presents itself, carefully observing his techniques and trying to glean insights that I can apply to my own game.  

Participating in football contributes significantly to maintaining my physical fitness and overall well-being. Beyond the physical benefits, it also serves as a valuable outlet for recreation and stress relief after the demands of the school week. Furthermore, it provides cherished opportunities to connect and socialize with my friends, both on and off the field.  

Looking ahead, it is my sincere hope and aspiration to continue actively pursuing my passion for football for many years to come, embracing the challenges and joys that the sport offers.  

  Admiration - Захоплення  

  Legendary - Легендарний  

  Consistently - Послідовно, постійно  

  Extraordinary - Надзвичайний, винятковий  

  Effortless - Легкий, невимушений  

  Maintain - Підтримувати, зберігати  

  Control - Контроль, керування  

  Challenging - Складний, важкий  

  Opportunity - Можливість  

  Observing - Спостерігаючи, помічаючи  

  Contributes - Сприяє, робить внесок  

  Valuable - Цінний, важливий

I. Read the sentences below and decide if they are true or false according to the text. Write True or False next to each sentence (0,5 point).

1. Alex is eighteen years old now. _______  
2. Alex began playing football when he was eight years old. _______  
3. Alex plays football for a professional team. _______  
4. Alex thinks his coach is not very helpful. _______  
5. Football needs teamwork and a good plan. _______  
6. Alex's favourite player is Cristiano Ronaldo. _______  
7. Playing football helps Alex stay fit. _______  

II. Choose the best answer (a, b, or c) for each question based on the text (0,5 point).

1. How often does Alex's team practice?  

a) One time a week b) Two times a week c) Every day

2. When does Alex's team usually play games?  

a) On Sundays b) During the week c) On Saturdays

3. What does Alex like most about being on a team?  

a) Getting to wear a uniform b) Working together to win c) Traveling to other schools

4. What does Alex think about Lionel Messi?  

a) He is a fast runner. b) He has great talent and ball control. c) He is a tall player.

5. Besides being fun, what else does football do for Alex?  

a) It helps him earn money. b) It helps him relax and be healthy. c) It helps him study better.

III. Answer the following questions based on the information in the text. Write your answers in complete sentences (1 point).

1. Who taught Alex how to play football?  
2. Does the text say what position Alex plays?  
3. Why does Alex like to watch Lionel Messi play?  
4. What is one way that playing football is good for Alex?  
5. What does Alex hope for his future with football?  
6. What sport do you like and why?