In his youth he was the captain of Slovan, he played for Slovakia. Today he is in the seminary and will be a priest: I accepted the offer – ŠPORT.SK

today 10:55 | Transfers are not unusual in the life of footballers. In the summer and winter seasons, a number of players will change their club address, not only among professionals, but also among amateurs or juniors and adolescents. It is even customary to talk about the transition in life, figuratively, even on the wedding day of athletes. But what kind of transfer is it when a player decides to end his football career and embark on a priestly journey? Adam Štefanec is 25 years old and in his teenage years he was not only a talented midfielder, but also a youth representative of Slovakia and captain of the teenagers in Slovan Bratislava. He is the champion of Slovakia in the under-15 category. In addition, he comes from a football family – his grandfather, uncle, father and younger brother wore football boots. “My brother and I were key players in the midfield in Slovan’s nineteen. They bought us as reinforcements, we played all the matches until then. On the other hand, they knew that I am a believer and I am close to God,” he stated in telling his life story for Plus ONE DAY. He gave up a promising football career when he was only 19 years old. “Before, I was in the limelight, I also played in the youth national team. I was doing well and suddenly a shock came. I didn’t play. Maybe if it had come at a time when I had no doubts about my career as a footballer, I wouldn’t have made such a decision. However, it was easier for me. I didn’t have to make a decision for a long time,” continues Adam Štefanec in telling his story. “It was a big leap and a big difference. The world of sports is much more free compared to the conservative church environment and I had to give up several things, but I am convinced that I made the right decision. Before, I didn’t think about becoming a priest at all, but after meeting God, I had no doubts about it. It was a powerful moment for me. I knew it was only meant for me. An offer came and I accepted it. I discovered another path and I would be stupid if I didn’t follow it now that I know it is better for me,” Plus ONE DAY quoted him as saying. Today he is 25 years old and still has a year in the seminary. He is not yet a priest, but he can baptize, marry or celebrate funerals. “I am aware that I will not have a wife and children. I know what I’m getting into. I’m ready for it. Even in football, it is somewhat true that if you want to devote yourself to it really fully and progress, the girls have to go aside. In a way, it was already a kind of celibacy for me. Not everyone understood it, it confused some guys,” thought the native of Žilina. Adam Štefanec adds that he only plays football on Mondays. “With people from the parish. We’ll also run for beer afterwards,” he concluded with a smile on his face.