Through the
Varsity S Club Spotlight we'll re-connect with student-athletes of the past. This series will illustrate the impact that a Sonoma State University education has on student-athletes and highlights the impact they are now having in their communities.
SARAH SOARES (BROSIUS)
- Sarah was a four-year member of the Sonoma State Women's Soccer team from 1996 to 1999. A two-time All-American (1998-99), she helped lead the '98 team to the NCAA Championship Game. Sarah ranks 2nd all-time in career assists (25) and earned three All-Conference awards.
What is your favorite memory as a student-athlete?
There are too many memories to choose from, especially with the group of women I played with. The work ethic, integrity and competitive spirit of this team was hands down the best I've ever been involved in. Winning on the field was an incredible experience, but all of my memories stem from the experiences I had with my teammates, my teammates' families, coaches, trainers, and SSU's athletic department. We really knew how to have fun and enjoy the moment. Some of my favorite memories include my own mom running up and down the field "raising the roof" during playoffs, seeing the college boys carry in couches to watch our games, our team pushing Luke Oberkirch and Bill Fusco into the hotel pool after making it to the National Finals,the silly skits we put on at the end of the season at our team party, and the red van that would always break down at some point on our road trips. Being a part of this team was a special time in my life.
How do you think you changed as a person during your time at Sonoma State?
As I went through my four years at SSU, I gained more confidence in myself and by the end of my Senior year I really knew who I was as a being. I learned how to be a better teammate, student, and friend; and as my confidence increased I found that I was able to be happier for others' successes because I was confident in myself. This is a lesson I stress to my own daughters.
If you could give advice to a freshman student-athlete today, what would it be?
Enjoy your college experience now. Work hard, take advantage of your education, and have fun.
What are you up to these days?
I'm happily married to my biggest fan, Kevin, who is also a SSU alumni. We have two daughters, Carli and Danielle, who both enjoy soccer and I have the pleasure of coaching both of their teams. Coaching competitive soccer teams has been a great way for me to enjoy the game and instill the characteristics that have made me successful into the players I coach. I continue to keep active by working out, running races, hiking in Tahoe and kayaking. My career has spanned a variety of roles in education. Currently, I am an Assessment & English Language Coordinator for Rocklin Unified. I'm still fortunate enough to have my teammates and life-long friends in my life.
How did Sonoma State University help prepare you for your career?
SSU was where I became an adult. I started there as a deer in headlights and left as a confident woman. The lessons that prepared me for life were those that built my character and taught me how to work with other people.
ABOUT THE VARSITY S CLUB
The Varsity S Club is an exclusive group of past and present Sonoma State University student-athletes, coaches, cheerleaders, athletic trainers, and administrators formed for the purpose of building enthusiasm for Sonoma State University Athletics. The Varsity S Club does this through a variety of philanthropic, fundraising, and social events designed to strengthen SSU Athletics. Membership in the Varsity S Club is open to any individual who has competed in varsity athletics at Sonoma State University, as well as any past member of the cheer team, athletic training, or administrative staff. Sign up here:
Varsity S Club.
See past Varsity S Club Spotlight features here:
Varsity S Club Spotlight Archive.
