The benefit of work-life balance to help achieve dreams.
Meet Alex, a software engineer for the SQQ-89 Undersea Warfare Combat System. Outside of the Manassas, Virginia facility, Alex shows off 89 in a different realm. In June, Alex wore number 89 for the Puerto Rico National Team at the 2023 World Lacrosse Championship in San Diego. The outpour of support from Lockheed Martin peers, a flexible work schedule, and an unbelievable drive turned a dream into reality.
After Puerto Rico finished 10th out of a field of 30 worldwide teams, we caught up with Alex to learn about his journey to San Diego and the work-life balance it took to pursue his dream.
What did it mean to be selected to play for Team Puerto Rico?
My family has roots in Puerto Rico. My mom was born in Maunabo, Puerto Rico. My dad was born and raised in Reading, Pennsylvania but spent many years in Orocovis, Puerto Rico.
Fifty athletes were invited to try out. Their backgrounds were Division I colleges like Maryland, Johns Hopkins, and Syracuse, the biggest names in college lacrosse. Only 23 athletes were selected. It was amazing getting the phone call and hearing you’re going to represent your island and your family.
What was it like mentally and physically preparing for the world championship?
Physically, it was different from the way I trained in college. I played Division I lacrosse at the Virginia Military Institute and training was intense. To prepare for San Diego, each month I did bloodwork to see how my body was responding to my training. I also had a trainer who works with professional basketball and NFL players. It was great to be able to get exposure to elite, world-class training.
Mentally, I woke up at 4:30 a.m. to give myself time to breathe and relax. I did this to understand my reason for training twice a day. My reason was to honor my family, the island, and show I’m playing for something much bigger than myself. That helped me when I was sore, tired, and felt like I couldn’t go any further in my workouts.
How were you able to balance playing for Team Puerto Rico and working?
There was a lot of communication. I couldn’t have done it without my team. They did a fantastic job with scheduling work. Having that support helped me prepare for the day. Once I got to work, I would flip that switch to work mode. Although I train hard, I make sure I’m giving my absolute best at work. For me, that’s having a refreshed mind and being ready to get work done.
How were you able to balance playing for Team Puerto Rico and working?
There was a lot of communication. I couldn’t have done it without my team. They did a fantastic job with scheduling work. Having that support helped me prepare for the day. Once I got to work, I would flip that switch to work mode. Although I train hard, I make sure I’m giving my absolute best at work. For me, that’s having a refreshed mind and being ready to get work done.
What advice do you have for people who want to pursue something they’re passionate about but might be hesitant about balancing work demands?
The easiest thing to say is follow your dreams. Everyone here is supportive of not only your goals at work but also outside of work. Lockheed Martin has many different resources. I was able to adjust my hours to train to my maximum potential. Don’t be afraid to speak with your leader to get the resources you need.
What is one thing you want others to know about your journey?
There were a lot of highs and lows. With my past injuries and the pandemic, I doubted the journey. But it was amazing to have had this goal for about 13 or 14 years of my lacrosse career of wanting to play on TV with the flag on my chest.
What is next for you and Team Puerto Rico?
In November, we will compete in a tournament in Jamaica made up of North and South American teams. The main reason why Puerto Rico wants to go is to compete at the highest level. The Jamaican Olympic Committee will also be there which gives us a chance at getting lacrosse into the Olympics. It’ll be a multifaceted trip.
