WAUSAU, Wis. — Nikolaus Strand, 13, is an eighth grader at Horace Mann Middle School in Wausau. Nikolaus has played soccer from almost as early as he could walk and currently plays for both the Horace Mann team and for MC United.

Nikolaus appreciates how much the sport has taught him about leadership and cooperation. He has also absorbed some great advice from his coaches and parents over the years.

“Practice doesn’t make you perfect, it makes you better at what you do.” recalled Nikolaus from among this guidance. He also remembers, “You haven’t lost until the game is over.”

Nikolaus would love to become a professional soccer player, but would also enjoy teaching the sport at some time in the future. He loves the fun aspect of soccer, but also likes to hang out with friends and family.

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