In celebration of Latin Heritage Night next Wednesday, Reading United is taking the time to recognize the Latin American players who make up the team. For the fans to get to know a little bit more about the players they are cheering on, we sat down and talked to them about their heritage, home, and changes they made to play a sport they love.

Maximillian Galizzi is originally from Argentina, and has dazzled on the road in all three of his appearances wearing the blue and gold.  The Reading United forward will be a senior at Christian Brothers University in the fall.

Where are you from?

I was born in Santa Fe, Argentina, but I’ve lived in Puerto Madryn (also in Argentina but in the south) since I was 7 years old.

Are there any similarities between here and home?

I cannot find many similarities to be honest.

How has your time been with United?

My time with United has been great. I’ve learned new things to improve as a player and I am enjoying really the good trainings with great players.  

When did you start playing soccer?

I started playing soccer when I was 9 years old.

What got you started playing soccer?  

I believe I started playing because we always played in the school breaks with my classmates and I fell in love with the game so I asked my mum to bring me to a club in the city. I also used to play a lot in the street with any random boys.

Have you found people here to connect with because of your heritage?

I was very lucky to find an amazing Argentinian family living in Memphis (where I go to school) with whom I share lots of things. I also find South American people wherever I play with whom I share common behaviors from back home.  

What’s something you miss about home?

The things I miss the most are my family and friends.

What’s your family like? (siblings, parents, etc.)

I’m so blessed to have an amazing family. My parents were always supportive with my decisions and they follow my games in every place I play. My younger brother is also one of the most important people in my life. I’m really proud of him and hopefully he’ll be joining me with the us soccer experience soon. I must say also that my family is very big since we consider our closest friends as part of it.

What’s your favorite thing to do back home?

My favorite thing to do back home is spend the day on the beach with my family or friends.

What’s your favorite food/meal from home?

My favorite meal from home is Asado (the most traditional Argentinian meal)

What’s one word you would use to describe your home?

I think that “Paradise” would describe perfectly Puerto Madryn (the city where I lived)