‘Where I’m from’ has many meanings for Torres-Gale
Born locally, UW freshman is proud of a blended heritage that reaches far beyond Madison
Jake Ross
10/9/2023
MADISON, Wis. – If you ask Cristian Torres-Gale where he's from, the short answer would be Madison, Wisconsin, where he was born and raised. But the long answer paints a picture of a blended heritage that has played a pivotal role in his life, an aspect of living that he's always been grateful for.
"My dad is from Mexico and my mom is from Wisconsin," Torres-Gale explained.
"Our family is an example of how different cultures, languages, and heritages can be celebrated and honored. My family has always been proud of our Hispanic heritage. Being Hispanic is a huge part of who I am and what I bring to UW Madison."
Celebrating heritage is not something that is limited to Cristian's past, the freshman on the UW men's soccer team is always trying to keep up with his culture through the music that he listens to, the food he eats, and the places where he travels.
"Within the Hispanic culture there are so many different sub-cultures, there is a lot to learn. Just this last year I was able to be a Chambelan in a quinceañera." Torres-Gale explained of the tradition where a group of friends serve as escorts for the traditional 15-year old birthday party, similar to a bridal party.
Torres-Gale's mix of lifestyles and cultures has also seeped into his soccer-playing career. As a member of the Chicago Fire Academy team, Torres-Gale got to compete in his father's home country of Mexico back in 2019. Playing against Mexico produced a small sense of conflict in the winger, as he felt a connection to both the United States and Mexico.
"I obviously wanted to win and go away successfully, but it was fun to see how their play was different from what I am used to here. I have always been part of Latino soccer leagues and enjoy playing with different play styles," Torres-Gale said.
He then explained how comfortable he would feel identifying with Mexican soccer.
"It definitely made me think about what it would be like to take advantage of my double nationality and go and play for Mexico. It is something I am still open to and might explore at some point."
Torres-Gale's soccer career has led him back to his hometown, and he sees how programs like the UW team can be an avenue for the sport's growing popularity in the States, as well as its diverse player group.
“This program is amazing because it is looking for international players, while still honoring and scouting from nearby states and homegrown players like myself,” said Torres-Gale.
"This balance and diversity doesn't happen everywhere. I think that opportunities like this, to talk about our experiences, and to highlight ourselves and our talents and diversity it will only attract more people to the games."
Torres-Gale recognizes his opportunity as a player and student to be a role model. He hopes to teach kids what it means to do their best, persevere through challenges, respect others, and be open to learning and taking in new experiences, even if they aren't always traditional.
"If I had been too afraid to take chances I would not be where I am today."
Not just through soccer, Torres-Gale hopes that the University of Wisconsin can continue to grow to a place where celebrating one's culture and heritage is the norm.
"I think Wisconsin, for the most part, is a place where cultural and linguistic diversity is celebrated," Torres- Gale explained.
"I think people are attracted to where they feel valued and respected for the diversity that they bring. I will know that UW Madison is working towards that goal when the number of Hispanic students, and that of other minorities as well, are represented equally in the academic world as in the community. I will see celebrations of languages and cultures throughout the year, embedded in all aspects of the community and not just in one specific month."
Torres-Gale has found a home on the Badgers men's soccer team. So perhaps he'll need to add that to the list when asked "where he's from."
"My style and personality are a combination of all my experiences. I am proud to bring this diversity to UW Madison and see what experiences are available for students like me."