When looking into the world of college athletics, there is much spotlight on the performance and statistics of these athletes. At Dean College, senior midfielder Jazlyn Estrella of the women’s soccer team is not only a skilled athlete but embodies much more. By scoring goals on the field and being a two-year captain, she’s shaping her future and inspiring her teammates.
Jazlyn's soccer journey began at a young age in West Warwick, Rhode Island. Starting at ten years old—later than most—she quickly fell in love with the game. From recreational leagues, joining GPS Premiere soccer, playing for Deering Middle School and much more, her passion grew more and more each year. By high school, she was not only competing for Bruno United but also competing for the West Warwick High girls’ soccer team. By the end of her high school career, she would be named a captain of the team and be faced with the question; is college soccer for me?
When asked why she chose to play soccer at the collegiate level, Jazlyn's answer reflects her deep passion for the sport. “I didn’t want to just be done after high school,” she explains. “If I was going to be in school for four more years, why not use my eligibility and play?” Her enthusiasm for the game is undeniable, revealing a spirit that has remained even throughout her years of college soccer. Jazlyn states “The passion I have for soccer and playing just continued to grow over the years, and honestly, no one or nothing at all can ever make me hate it.”
Throughout her years on the Dean College women’s soccer team, Jazlyn has not only honed her athletic skills but has also embraced her role as a leader. Serving as captain for all the teams she has played for has taught her the importance of building strong relationships and being a figure her teammates can look up to as well as be inspired by. “Being on a team has influenced my attitude positively,” she says, emphasizing the significance of togetherness and support within the group.
However, the journey has not been without obstacles. Jazlyn has faced impactful injuries during her time at Dean, but instead of allowing these setbacks to deter her, she used those experiences as opportunities for growth. “I hope my teammates can learn to be just as determined as I was over the years in not just soccer but with anything in life” she states. The impact she aims to leave on the Dean College women’s soccer team is profound. “I also hope that I influenced them to keep on playing soccer and not quit no matter how hard it gets” she reflects, understanding that her journey is not just about personal success but about uplifting others.
As she looks towards the future, Jazlyn’s passion and love for the sport have her determined to continue her journey in soccer. Her aspirations include attending graduate school, obtaining a graduate assistantship to coach women’s soccer, and earning her coaching license. “Sticking around soccer for my career is my main goal,” she states, highlighting her commitment to the sport over the years that has shaped her life. The end goal is to work towards a coaching position in Division III or higher, or even work in sports administration. Jazlyn will be graduating from Dean College this spring of 2025 with a bachelor’s in sports management.
Jazlyn Estrella’s journey through soccer is one of passion, leadership, and resilience. As she reflects on her final season at Dean College and her years in soccer, she leaves behind a legacy that emphasizes determination, togetherness, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Her story reminds us all that with the right mindset and a supportive team, we can overcome any hurdle, on or off the field.
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