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In the Middle East, soccer is life. With only a ball and their shoes to mark a goal, children play in the streets every day. That’s how Daniel and Matthew Leo grew up.  

Because their parents are heavily involved with international charity work and are currently running a Christian hospital overseas, they spent their childhood in Yemen, Oman, Lebanon and, most recently, the United Arab Emirates.  

Now, they are teammates on  . Although it had been a lifelong dream to play on the same college team, their dream only became reality this past summer.  

Matthew Leo, a senior  major, chose to attend Cedarville after receiving an invitation from head coach Brett Faro.  

Daniel Leo previously completed his undergraduate degree in public health at Liberty University, but per NCAA rules, Daniel has a one-time transfer exception that allows him to use his remaining years of eligibility to play at another university. Over the summer, he transferred to Cedarville for his master's degree in — giving the brothers a final opportunity to play together at the collegiate level. 

“We never thought we’d have the chance to play alongside each other, but everything came together at the last minute,” said Matthew. “Daniel is an incredible older brother, and getting to share the field with him one last time in college is truly a blessing.” 

With just a two-year age gap, both brothers describe having a close relationship — one that translates well on and off the field.  

“I am very close with my brother,” said Daniel. “There are five of us brothers, and we have one little sister. They are my best friends, but there is nobody closer than Matthew.” 

Although the current season is just underway, the siblings have created a playlist of memories they will always remember, including when they both stood on the sideline in the game against Maryville University of St. Louis. Neither entered the game, but they realized they were wearing the same jersey. They were on the same college team for the first time in their lives. 

“Growing up with our three other brothers, we did everything together and were constantly competing,” said Matthew. “If Daniel was on one team, I was on the other. I always looked up to him, pushing myself to match or even surpass what he had achieved.” 

Despite past injuries and their transition from the UAE to the U.S., both brothers keep their Christian faith at the center of everything. For them, soccer is more than a sport — it’s a ministry.  

“I am a Christ-follower first,” said Daniel. “Love your brother over your love for the sport. As a believer, if you are not desiring or sharing the gospel with someone, you need to question your own authenticity. We must live out our faith and act on it both on and off the field.” 

Cedarville’s men's soccer team competes at the Division II level, but its mission extends beyond the scoreboard. Players pray daily on the field and often share the gospel with opposing teams after games.    

“My faith has shaped the way I play soccer more than anything else,” said Matthew. “Without it, I know the game could easily become an idol. Because of my faith, I’m able to face injuries and sidelined seasons with patience and joy. My faith gives me the freedom to play without pressure, knowing my identity is secure in Christ. And ultimately, it allows me to see soccer as another opportunity to glorify God.” 

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.