Golden Valley soccer star staying close to home as she makes her college choice official
It was a moment Golden Valley High School senior Kayla Perez won’t soon forget.
The Cougars soccer star was surrounded by teammates, friends, coaches and family, who all gathered in the campus library to celebrate her moment.
Perez made her college choice official Friday afternoon, signing her national letter of intent to play soccer at Stanislaus State.
“Honestly, it was very heart-warming,” Perez said. “To see everyone there supporting me. I had friends and family talk about me and how far I’ve come. It was nice to hear.”
The opportunity to stay close to home at the Turlock campus is a bonus.
Perez began playing soccer at a young age. She tried other sports, but always gravitated toward soccer and now the sport is rewarding her with an opportunity to continue playing in college and with her education.
“Something has always connected me with that sport,” Perez said. “I don’t know if it was the people I was around or the friends that I made, but I’ve always loved soccer.”
Perez was an all-Central California Conference first-team selection as a center midfielder last year for the Cougars. Perez has helped guide GV to a 4-0 start in CCC play this season, leading the team with six goals and four assists.
“Kayla is a leader on and off the field,” Golden Valley coach Ashley Faraone said. “She has a special influence on her teammates that is what any coach could ask for. She is such a smart, creative player with a unique insight to the game.”
Perez has also excelled in the classroom, compiling a 4.1 GPA during high school and plans on going into the medical field.
She said the persistence the Stanislaus State coaching staff showed during the recruiting process made her feel wanted.
“They showed a lot of interest when they reached out to me and kept in contact with me,” Perez said. “I went on a visit and I did like the campus. They showed me around and academics at the school are very well supported. I already know some of my teammates. I think it’s a great opportunity.”
Perez has put so much time into soccer over the years. It started when she was introduced to the sport in recreational leagues. She graduated on to club teams and Golden Valley.
“It’s good to know all that hard work wasn’t for nothing,” Perez said. “Now soccer can help my future. I’m excited for the challenge. I want to show my work ethic for my coaches and teammates as well as be a good teammate and good all-around person.”
