Nina Ciri '25 Recruiting Profile

When I think back on why I joined this sport, my story begins similar to many others.  It started with a parent who played the game and got me involved, something for me to do on a Saturday morning, a chance to meet new friends. 

But, this sport took on a life of its own in my mind and heart. As many times as my Dad told, ‘don’t do this for me or mom, do this for you’ that didn’t really resonate with me until recently.  The flights to tournaments, ID clinics, hotels, endless Panera’s, miles in the car all inspired me but the seasons started to blend into each other.  

It wasn’t until recently where a minor injury had me sidelined when I realized my true passion and love for the game. Soccer isn’t just a sport I play, it is woven into the fabric of who I am, it is at the heart of what motivates me as a person, as a student and a friend. Everyday when I was injured I watched from the sideline. I yearned more and more to be on the field. During that period of time I learned to truly appreciate the times when I am able to run through the wind and feel the crunch of the turf on my feet. Not only that, but I learned why I play this game. The drive, the adversity, the sisterhood, the adrenaline rush I feel when I kick the ball. My love for the game is why I lace up everyday.

At the end of the day my faith in God is at the core of who I am. That is for certain, my family is close behind, and following is this sport called soccer. Soccer is a part of who I am and I cannot go without. It makes me smile, makes me yearn for that sisterhood and sense of self each and every day. 

 I long to be on a team not to simply play but a team that resembles this passion I have. In my college career I would love to be a part of that and bring my talent and passion to a program, that’s how I will know I have a good fit, it will feel like an extension of me, it will feel like home.