4 answers
Donald’s Answer
I'm now retired, but I was an Environmental Engineer and Manager in heavy industry for 25 years. My opinion is that a good soccer player supporting environmental actions can be more effective than a good environmentalist who also plays competitive soccer. Commit to your soccer, but support positive environmental programs, such as good drinking water for poor communities in the US and around the world. I caution against attack environmental efforts like stopping pipelines or prosecuting alleged baddies. It appears to me that the majority of those active in negative programs don't have an understanding of both sides of the problem. As a known athlete supporter for positive programs, your influence can only grow, both with environmentalists and corporations. I've been there.
Sara’s Answer
If you become a professional soccer player you can use your fame to endorse environmental causes and encourage your home stadium to embrace sustainable design concepts like low flush toilets, solar panels, reusable beverage containers, and cisterns for field irrigation.
John Medeiros MS EHS
John’s Answer
There is life after Soccer. Many towns have parks and recreation departments. They often need people who have some environmental knowledge as well as an understanding of sports and field maintenance. My advice is to learn as much as you can in the situations you put yourself and then use that knowledge to find employment as close to that "Happy Spot" in your life as you can. Remember if you enjoy the work you do it will not seem like you "work" at all. Good Luck!