Just about everyone who plays a sport, whether they be in high school or pre-K, has one dream: to play for as long as possible. Only 1 in every 14 high school players, or around 7% of athletes, will move on to compete in college. Here at Silverado, we were lucky enough to have our very own varsity soccer captain, Melina Amador, officially sign with the College of Southern Nevada. Because of this, I figured I'd highlight some of her achievements and give her the recognition she deserves.

Melina made varsity her freshman year, so she is a four-year letterman. She is an all-league, all-region, and all-state athlete. Despite this, she doesn't let it get to her head. Instead, she values the relationships she has made because of the sport and recognizes the importance of being apart of a team. She says, “I love how some of the teachers at Silverado connect with you, they give you a purpose while sitting in their class. I also love how many different people I have encountered and how many friendships I have made throughout these past four years.”

When asked about her sport, she replied, “my sport overall is trying to [find] a way to get the ball in the net at any given time during the period of the match. This sport is also [designed] to bring together the idea of communication, effort, and working together as a whole. Additionally, it's being mentally and physically sharp and most of all enjoying what you do. I play center midfield which is between the forwards and the defenders. This position means I have to support my attacking offense and support the shift to my defenders. I have to be constantly on my toes, ready to move up and down the field. My position is for anyone who has the basics down for soccer technically. They need to have decent passing techniques, make long shots, and have a vision out on that field.”

Being the captain, her job entails more than just her play on the field. Melina says her role on the team is to support her teammates on and off the field. She explains, “Yes, I want us to win but I also want them to realize this game is more than winning, it takes dedication, time, patience, fun, and most of all giving their hearts to this team. I was captain and I want the best for each individual on this team and I want them to seek their worth, and to reach their full potential.”

As for her future, Melina is going to CSN to continue her education and to play soccer there. When questioned about whether or not it will be difficult, she replied, “I think it will be challenging and developing but I think it will be worth it in the end. It will be a blast doing something I love surrounded by positive and supportive people around me. With college I'm looking to experience more about myself on and off the field, to enjoy this opportunity I have, mainly to develop on a broader level with soccer.”

We all wish Melina the best of luck in her endeavors, with both soccer and school, and hopefully, we see her out there next fall helping lead CSN to a division title.