Intramural soccer at the University of Denver is an essential part of many student’s college experiences. It provides an opportunity to unwind every Sunday with the sport they love most.

This shared love of competition and the beautiful game is what brings players together. My photos look to capture this bond. I wanted to show the sidelines, where the faces of the game truly shine.

I wanted to show the emotions that IM soccer brings, as well as the relationships that are built through it. To do so, I added two interviews from players that dive into the bond with their team as well as the game itself.

This process did not come without challenges. The nighttime lighting was a big obstacle for a beginning photographer like myself, pulling away from the game to focus on photography took some willpower and that’s not to mention the editing struggles that came after the shoot.

What was easy? Getting players to smile, sweat and talk about the game they love.

In a way, this process was like soccer itself: a worthwhile challenge. I hope you enjoy the game.