Nikole Cruz, a senior at Kent-Meridian High School, was invited to the Philippines Women’s National Team soccer camp in Corona, Calif.
Coach Christopher Wells received an email from a scout a couple months ago inquiring about Cruz and inviting her to the camp.
“I was really proud of her,” Wells said. “Not everyone gets to do something like that, and knowing she was going to have an opportunity to go down there and try out for her heritage – that’s really special.”
Cruz is captain of the girls soccer team at Kent-Meridian and plays center midfield. With two goals and three assists this season, her technical skills not only made an impression on her school’s team but also a scout from the Malditas, the Filipino national soccer team, while she was at a college showcase tournament in California.
Cruz’ parents came to the United States from the Philippines 17 years ago and are proud that their daughter gets the unique chance to showcase her skills.
“I feel pretty proud, (and) they’re proud of me,” Cruz said.
Cruz was also voted team MVP at Kent-Meridian and made the All-South Puget Sound League first team.
Cruz will be trying out for the Malditas from March 25 to April 1.
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