Help Zachary Play and Learn in Madrid, Spain

My name is Zachary Zemmels. This August, I will return to The College for International Studies in Madrid, to which I am the recipient of the Elite Talent Scholarship. Even with the scholarship, I owe $7,000 in tuition each semester and another $1,000 or so per month on rent and food. I dream of becoming a pro soccer player and coach, with the ultimate goal of using my experience and blessings to give back to my community.

I am raising money to make it back to Madrid and continue to follow my dreams. My family and I appreciate every dollar and thank you for your generosity. Below you will find more information and pictures to tell you more about my soccer career.

Last year in Madrid as a first year in college was my first time moving away from home. Without a doubt, it was the most challenging year of my life, but I am proud to say I persevered through the challenges by maintaining faith in the processes of growing, learning, and self-discovery. Academically, I finished the fall, spring, and summer semesters with a 4.0 GPA, all A's. Athletically, I was able to return from a grueling, 11-month injury recovery process and start the last nine games of the season at center back, even earning a man of the match award and the captain's armband for a match. I completed the lifelong dream by going to see Real Madrid and Manchester United play. I immersed myself in the vibrant culture of Madrid and made some amazing friends from all over the world along the way.

As this summer comes to an end, I look forward to returning to Spain to continue my journey. It will be a bittersweet goodbye to my home here in New Orleans. Still, I have had a great time here filled with friends and family time, offseason training, and relaxing and recharging. Now it's time to get back to work!

Below are some pictures and videos from this year and years past.

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