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'People say it's s***, but I love Iraq' - Whitecaps defender Adnan fighting to help his homeland

The fullback has been a trailblazer on the field, but hopes to do more while pushing his nation through World Cup qualifiers

For most professional athletes, the offseason is a time to relax and unwind. It's a time to reflect on the season that just ended and look ahead to the one that lies ahead. For the first time in quite a long time, players are given a much-needed opportunity to rest.

But Vancouver Whitecaps defender Ali Adnan didn't relax or unwind this winter. Instead, the 26-year-old spent his offseason back in Iraq, working alongside protesters while trying to give a better life to those in his home country.