For the past five years, I have had the chance to be friends with Matteo Cupello. During that time, I have gotten to know him not only as a friend, but also as a student, soccer player, and someone who enjoys being around the people close to him. Matteo is a student at our school whose background connects him to Venezuela, New York, and Miami. His family, friendships, and love for soccer have all helped shape who he is today.
Matteo’s family background is an important part of his story. His family is from Venezuela, while Matteo was born in New York. Growing up with connections to different places has given him different experiences and helped him develop his own identity. Outside of school, Matteo has his brother, and his dog, giving him family and companionship when he is not in class or on the soccer field.
One of the biggest parts of Matteo’s life is soccer. He plays for South Miami United, where he practices, competes, and continues working to improve his skills. Soccer requires dedication, teamwork, and commitment because players have to work together and support each other. For Matteo, soccer is more than just an activity after school. It has become an important part of his life and something he continues to put time and effort into.
His personality also makes him someone people enjoy being around at school. Junior Andrew Brito, who has F Block with Matteo, said that Cuppelo makes the class more enjoyable.
“Cuppelo is a very fun person. F Block is so fun with him,” Andrew said.
Matteo’s personality also carries over to his soccer life. Junior Noah Broder, who knows Matteo through soccer, said that being around him makes practices more enjoyable.
“Soccer practice is fun with him, but he’s definitely better at soccer than me,” Noah said.
His comment shows both the friendship and friendly competition that can come from playing soccer together.
Outside of soccer and school, Matteo has also built strong friendships with the people around him. Junior Alejandro Feria described Matteo as one of his good friends.
“Matteo is one of my good friends. I’ve known him for a while, and he’s always someone I can have fun with and talk to at school,” Ale said.
As someone who has been friends with Matteo for five years, I have been able to see him grow and change over time. We have shared different experiences, from regular school days to conversations and moments outside of class. Having a friendship for that long has given me the opportunity to see the person behind the student and soccer player.
Matteo’s story is about more than where he was born or the soccer team he plays for. His family, friendships, background, and interests have all helped shape the person he is today. His connection to Venezuela, his beginnings in New York, his life in Miami, and his passion for soccer all represent different parts of his identity. After knowing Matteo for five years, I can say that these experiences help show what makes him unique and why the people around him enjoy having him in their lives.
