Texas Southmost College soccer programs are helping Rio Grande Valley players extend their careers by providing a platform to gain attention from four-year institutions.
Five TSC players announced their commitments during a ceremony at the Oliveira Student Services Center.
Men's soccer players Ivan Galvan and Miguel Campos will continue their careers at Nelson University, a National Christian College Athletic Association program in Phoenix, Arizona.
"I'm very proud to go to another university and accomplish a dream I've had since high school," said Campos, a goalkeeper. "I appreciate my teammates, family and friends who encouraged me."
Both players joined TSC after beginning their collegiate careers outside the Rio Grande Valley.
Galvan, a winger, said he is grateful to men's soccer head coach Mario Zamora for the opportunity to become a Scorpion after contacting him while recovering from a knee injury.
"I did my recovery here at the TSC Recreation Center, and everyone was helpful," Galvan said. "When he finally gave me a chance to play, I took advantage of it and kept going."
While Campos and Galvan prepare for their move to Nelson University, three TSC players will continue their careers at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics program.
Men's soccer player Kenneth Reyes will be joined in San Antonio by America Valdez and Camila Minez from the TSC women's team.
"I feel very proud," said Reyes, a center back. "It's an experience I'll never forget. Not many people get this opportunity, and I'm going to keep working."
Valdez, a defender, said she had not planned to play college soccer until TSC's coaching staff reached out.
"When they gave me the opportunity, I took it," Valdez said. "It was close to home, I could see my parents, and it felt like the right choice. It's just a good feeling."
Minez, a winger and TSC's 2024-25 Newcomer of the Year, said she is thankful to share the experience with Valdez.
"I feel safer knowing I'll have someone there I can talk to and who will support me," Minez said.
The Scorpion soccer community is proud of the players continuing their careers and wishes them success at Nelson University and Texas A&M University-San Antonio.
