ELON, N.C. – Elon University head women’s soccer coach Chris Neal announced the addition of goalkeeper Valentina Estrada for the 2017 season today, March 31.
Estrada is a freshman addition to the team and comes from Tarpon Springs, Florida. She was a two-time All-Hillsborough Country First Team selection and was twice named the team’s Defensive MVP at Berkeley Preparatory High School. Estrada helped her high school team earn district runner-up finishes twice. She also guided her squad to a regional championship and a state final four appearance.
“Valentina is a wonderful addition to the squad,” said Neal. “She has incredible hands, reflexes, and instincts in the goal. More importantly, she has a history of being a great teammate as she is very well respected by her coaches and peers. With continued dedication and hard work over the spring and summer, I expect her to challenge for playing time right away.”
Estrada plays club for Tampa Bay United under head coach Jim Cote. She was a two-time state champion with the team during the 2015 and 2016 season.
Valentina Estrada
5-8 • Goalkeeper • Tarpon Springs, Fla./Berkeley Prep/Tampa Bay United
Prep: Was Defensive MVP in 2015 and 2016 and was a two-time All-Hillsborough County First Team selection in 2014 and 2015 at Berkeley Preparatory High School • Helped her squad finish as the District runner-up twice in 2014 and 2015 • Also guided Berkeley Prep to a regional championship and the final four of the state tournament • Coached by Kenneth Roberts and Jennifer Shannon-Martin.
Club: Plays club for Tampa Bay United under the direction of head coach Jim Cote • Helped her team win state championships in 2015 and 2016.
Personal: Born March 8, 1999 • The daughter of Jaime and Amalita Estrada • Her mother Amalita played volleyball at George Mason University • Is currently undecided on a major.