Lady Footballer and My Yute Soccer Coach, Ana Rivera

Honoring International Women's Day 2017, our second feature in "lady footballers" is Ana Rivera. She is a My Yute Soccer volunteer coach who has played across borders, both literally and figuratively.  We are so fortunate to have her on our team! Enjoy this profile and #BeBoldForChange! 

Who is she? 

Ana Rivera is a is a futbolista who wears two flags across her chest.

What's her position on the pitch? 

During the week in the United States she was goalie for her high school team in San Diego  and during the weekend she was a sweeper for Baja California. 

When did it all begin? 

One of six children, almost all of whom play the game, she was surrounded by futbol. As the only daughter, she had no choice than to be at the field, soaking up the skills on display. 

Every Friday she would cross the boarder to play in Tijuana. Playing on both sides really reminded her of the privilege she had. In the United States she was always granted a grass pitch. Whereas, in Tijuana, the pitch was never known– it could be a dirt field, a modified synthetic grass field, cement or grass.

What teams did she play for? 

After moving to the bay area for school, Ana played for Chabot College Women's Soccer as goalie and center midfielder, where she was voted captain both seasons.

Most recently she played for was the Lady Pirates, taking the 2016 summer championship.

Who's her favorite player? 

Tobin Heath is one of the players she still admires. 

What are her greatest moments as a player?

"Whenever I took penalties and SCORED!"

Ana is currently finishing her bachelors degree of Global Studies at CSU East Bay. She is also coaching for East Bay United. We look forward to this summer's My Yute Soccer camp when she will "pretty please" coach our littlest footballers–the 7 year olds!