For many athletes, their parents, family, friends, or coaches are the core aspects of what inspires them to pursue their career in a sport. However, for others like Mikayla Benavidez (12), another motivating factor is reflected by her commitment to California Baptist University: religion.

“I’m going to Cal Baptist, where I can really grow my relationship with God and also create more relationships in a new atmosphere with different people,” said Benavidez.

Benavidez is currently the captain of Ayala’s Varsity girls soccer team and has been a part of the soccer program all four years of her high school career. Even prior to the start of the Lady Bulldogs’ preseason, Benavidez had already been elected by the coaches as one of the captains.

“I don’t think there was a surprise. I don’t think there was a doubt. If you were there, you knew. That was her spot. She wasn’t letting anyone take it. It was hers,” said head coach Gabriel Ortiz.

Her adept skills as a soccer player are undeniable. From a young age, Benavidez’s mother, who had also played during her own childhood, had introduced her to the world of soccer. Through their unwavering support Benavidez was able to pursue her passion and grow into an outstanding player at both Ayala and the soccer club, Legends FC.

“My parents for sure have been my greatest supporters,” said Benavidez. “Whenever there was something hard that I was going through, they were always there to reassure me and be there when they knew that I was capable of doing much more than what I thought I was.”

Yet, it’s not only Benavidez’s skills that allow her to shine on the field. When put in the leading position, players may often abuse their power to undermine the team. However, Benavidez proves to be just the opposite through her unwavering determination and support for her teammates.

“My first impression of Mikayla was that I was really intimidated by her because I knew that she was really good. But the more that I got to know her, I realized that she’s actually a super sweet person and she’s really nice,” said teammate Alareese Serafica. “I think that she’s a really good leader for the team.”

Of course, like any successful athlete, Benavidez has faced obstacles throughout her soccer career. For Benavidez specifically, an immense part of the challenges was being in her head and not staying mentally strong. While these complications were difficult to overcome, the support of both her parents and religion allowed her to manage these hurdles and instead focus on her own growth and passion for soccer.

“She has contributed by being one of the best players to ever wear our uniform,” said Ortiz. “In the end, though, when I think of Mikayla, I don’t think of those things. I think of the girl who trains hard. I think of the girl that battles every session, every game.”

Outside of school, Benavidez greatly enjoys spending time with her friends and family, many of her most cherished memories made at the beach with her friends and filling her free time with moments shared with her parents. While the next chapter of both her soccer and educational career is rapidly descending, Benavidez continues to carry the experiences from her childhood close as she takes leaps into her college life.

“If I could describe my high school career in one word, it would be ‘memorable’ because there are many experiences and times that I can name from the top of my head that just really resonate with Ayala soccer and even the coaching as well. It really brought a fun side to the game,” said Benavidez.