Junior general business and finance and men’s soccer midfielder Diogo Stefane completes a pass. [Photo courtesy Jose “Little Joe” Valdez]

Editor’s note: Oct. 5 to 11 marks Student Athlete Mental Health Week which looks to amplify the voices of athletes at all levels and provide them with critical mental health resources through collective action, storytelling and advocacy.

The fall 2024 men’s soccer season held promise for Diogo Stefane until, just 20 minutes into their first official game against Louisiana Christian, his foot got stuck in the turf, causing a loud pop in his knee. Fueled by adrenaline, he did not immediately realize the seriousness of the situation. That sound became the reason for his season-ending exit, a surgery in his home country and a long recovery process. 

“I didn’t feel pain because of the adrenaline, but I knew that something was wrong because of the weird movement that I did and the pop that I heard,” Stefane, a junior general business and finance major, said. 

The midfielder is an essential piece of the team. Originally from Brazil, Stefane grew up playing soccer, and his discipline and hard work and leadership earned him the captain’s role. His return to the game has been decisive with five goals and three assists from midfield. 

“His comeback had definitely helped us so much, not just offensively but defensively as well,” said assistant soccer coach Eddy Rodriguez reflecting on his comeback.  “It’s safe to say, that he is our ‘key’ player this year. He is whom we entrusted the captain role and who we think will lead us to a great season this year.”

This achievement followed a long recovery which included a return to Brazil for knee surgery. 

“Me and my parents decided to do the surgery back home because of the quality of our insurance. I’m glad that I had the opportunity to get surgery in one of the best hospitals in the world, especially related with orthopedics area,” Stefane said. 

He also shared how his rehab process was complicated by having to keep up with academics.  

“About the rehab process, it was complicated; I needed to get back to school because of my classes, so I stayed back home for the three weeks that I needed to use crutches, and then I came back during these weeks,” he said. 

Stefane regrets not being able to play alongside some teammates who were seniors at the time, as well as missing the chance to contribute to the team and do what he loves most—playing soccer. 

Still, Stefane never lost his motivation. He says he always had a goal in mind.

“I had the goal to be able to play and help my teammates for this season, so during the whole process I was focusing on coming back and performing at the highest level; this is what kept me motivated during this tough moment of my life,” Stefane said. 

That mentality has served as an example for his teammates.

“He inspires us by being a great example. He has good grades, he takes care of his body better than anyone, and his attitude and values in general set a standard that the younger guys, especially the freshmen, can look up to. He shows us what it takes to be committed both as an athlete and as a person,” said Pablo Bances, a senior majoring in general business administration and Stefane’s teammate. 

Above all, Stefane reflected on how an injury can change one’s perspective and initiate growth.

“As a person, I understood that there are more ways to be important in an environment, even though without playing. I learned that just being in a good mood and being resilient during the process was motivating my teammates. This was really important to give me strength and feel part of the group,” Stefane said. 

Now, his return has helped the team secure seven wins as they look to improve their Sooner Athletic Conference standings. 

In connection with Student Athlete Mental Health Week, which is takes place this week from October 5 to 11, Stefane leaves an important message about perseverance. 

“As a player, I started to enjoy the game more, I’m doing what I love to do, there is no need to put internal pressure and demand too much of myself; now, every time that I step on the field, I’m just glad for the opportunity of being healthy and able to play.” Stefane said.  

With this, Stefane reflects not only on sports, but also on life. 

“At last, the lesson that I learned is to enjoy,” Stefane said. “Enjoy every moment and every opportunity of joy that I have in my life is extremely important, because I don’t know when it will end.”