Nina

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

Nina loves playing sports because they give her the chance to compete, grow and be part of something bigger than herself. Sports have helped build her confidence and taught her how to lead by example, encourage her teammates and work toward a common goal. She loves the friendships that come from being part of a team and the feeling of supporting each other through wins and losses. For Nina, sports are about becoming a stronger teammate, leader and friend both on and off the field.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

Nina is inspired by athletes like Carli Lloyd, Caitlin Clark and Russell Wilson, whose confidence, determination and leadership show her what is possible through hard work. Born in Washington state and a proud Seahawks fan, Russell has always been special to her. But her greatest inspiration is her mom, an amazing mother, role model and Nina’s best friend,who has taught her to be strong, kind, confident and always believe in herself.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

Two of Nina’s proudest moments are helping lead her travel basketball team to a championship with her tenacious defense and earning the role of captain of her club soccer team, where she became a do-it-all defender willing to play anywhere her team needed her. Both taught her that leadership is about effort, toughness and putting the team first. She’s proud of what she’s accomplished, but knows her story in sports is just beginning, the rest of her script is still being written.