Sofia Arevalo

I was born 7-weeks early holding fists up ready to fight. In the first year of my life, I had blood transfusions, intestinal issues, a brain hemorrhage, and was on an incubator for respiratory help. I spent that first year fighting to live, and the next 2 years in physical, occupational, and speech therapy playing catch-up. That same determination and fight still exists in me today, and I've made a promise to myself to live my life in a way that I can be proud of and realize my fullest potential. I'm fortunate to have grown up in a strong and supportive family. I have two hardworking parents who manage to balance long work hours and the needs of the family with the many activities, commitments and aspirations of three kids. Playing soccer has gifted me a second family. Although I've been involved in several different sports throughout my life, soccer is my true passion. I love the fire it brings out of me. I've experienced a lot of growth through soccer both as a player and a person. I play on multiple soccer leagues, frequently study game film, and am often complimented by coaches for my good awareness and IQ on the field. I enjoy helping a teammate score and will celebrate other's goals as much as I do my own. When I’m not on the soccer field, or spending time with family, I spend time volunteering with kids, participating in academic clubs, and am a co-founder of the MOSS (Make Our School Safe) program at my high school which focuses on school safety. <br />