Lucia Calvanese '26 Recruiting Profile

Having the opportunity to write a personal statement about my collegiate goals and aspirations feels somewhat like a fever dream.  A little over a year ago, I suffered a concussion that took me out of my first high school season and the classroom.  That time allowed me to heal and gain control over my studies and learn what true discipline really meant, as I was unsure what the future of sport held for me at that point.  With a lot of determination, I fought my way back after many months adversity to the pitch and the classroom.  Levante UD scouted me last summer and gave me the opportunity to play in Valencia, Spain with hopes of an offer to train and play with their Academy team.  After a few days on the campus, I was offered to train with the U17 team and the chance to scrimmage with them.  I scored a header within the first minutes of play, which was the catalyst for me that I could return, full body and heart (and head).   

I learned during this time that this sport is truly woven into the fabric of my being and that it allows me to fully express who I am as a leader.  My passions show in my leadership of team and self, without losing track of how grateful and blessed I am to have the opportunity to live out our collegiate goals and aspirations.  Truly I am honored each time I put on a game kit representing the culture that has given me the drive to fight for what I want to be a part of. Soccer has allowed me to play all over this country and now Internationally, but it has shown me the way to appreciate how to really lean in and make it something that I will take with me long after I'm able to lace up.  

I work hard on the field and in the classroom to set an example for my younger sister, who also plays this sport we love so much.  My Mom played in college and continues as a director and coach.  This is who we are and what we love.  I'll do my best to make sure one day I can pass that same torch to others, lead by example, and remember that an athlete is only as strong as the character they come to play with.