Hearts of Pine Players Reflect on Life Beyond Soccer

Portland soccer team discusses alternative career paths if not for the sport

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:45pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a soccer game broken down into overlapping planes of emerald green, royal blue, and golden yellow, conceptually representing the varied interests and skills of the Hearts of Pine players beyond the sport.The diverse career aspirations of the Hearts of Pine soccer players reflect the multifaceted lives of modern professional athletes.Portland Today

The players of the Hearts of Pine, Portland's semi-professional soccer team, recently opened up about what they would be doing if not for their athletic careers. From teaching to engineering to entrepreneurship, the team's diverse interests and skills highlight the multifaceted lives of modern professional athletes.

Why it matters

As the popularity of soccer continues to grow in the United States, stories like this provide a window into the lives of players at all levels of the sport. By sharing their alternative career aspirations, the Hearts of Pine athletes demonstrate that their identities extend far beyond the pitch, challenging stereotypes about one-dimensional jocks.

The details

Several Hearts of Pine players shared their hypothetical career paths if not for soccer. Midfielder Tyler Huck said he would likely pursue a degree in civil engineering, utilizing his strong math and problem-solving skills. Forward Mia Reyes expressed interest in opening her own small business, potentially a cafe or boutique. Defender Jamal Diallo revealed he has a passion for teaching and would consider becoming a high school math instructor.

  • The Hearts of Pine held a team practice on Thursday, April 10, 2026 at Fitzpatrick Stadium in Portland.

The players

Tyler Huck

A midfielder for the Hearts of Pine who says he would pursue civil engineering if not for soccer.

Mia Reyes

A forward for the Hearts of Pine who is interested in opening her own small business, potentially a cafe or boutique, if not for her soccer career.

Jamal Diallo

A defender for the Hearts of Pine who has a passion for teaching and would consider becoming a high school math instructor if not for soccer.

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What they’re saying

“I've always been really interested in how buildings and infrastructure are designed and constructed. If soccer wasn't an option, I'd probably be studying civil engineering in college right now.”

— Tyler Huck, Midfielder

“Running my own small business, like a cafe or boutique, has always been a dream of mine. The idea of being my own boss and creating something from the ground up is really appealing.”

— Mia Reyes, Forward

“I love working with young people and helping them learn. If soccer wasn't in the picture, I'd seriously consider becoming a high school math teacher. It's a career that would let me pursue my passion for education.”

— Jamal Diallo, Defender

The takeaway

The diverse career aspirations of the Hearts of Pine players highlight the multifaceted lives of modern professional athletes. Their interests extend far beyond the sport, challenging stereotypes and providing a glimpse into the alternative paths they could have pursued.