Lilliana Garcia

Hi! My name is Lilliana Garcia. I am from Niles, Michigan. I am a student athlete at Goshen College. I am blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of the Goshen Women’s Soccer team. I started playing soccer in 8th grade because I wanted to try a different sport before heading into high school. I carried soccer into my Freshman Year of high school and tried out for the team and got on Varsity, which I was super excited and surprised about. Making the team made me push myself more. Soccer became a big part of my life and overall identity throughout high school. I was a nominated captain my last two years of high school soccer. I try to push myself in everything I do. I believe that there is always room for improvement.

I got injured my junior year during my soccer season and just like that I was out for the rest of my season. Couldn’t bend my knee or even walk properly. But everything happens for a reason, that injury made me push and try harder to get back on that field. Knowing what it feels like to be injured and having to push extra to walk around or bend my knee made me appreciate being able to play even more. Making the people I love and most importantly myself proud is what motivates me to keep pushing in my sport. Because a few years back I would have never thought I’d be able to run and play the sport I love without feeling intense pain again. What also motivates me in my sport is remembering that my results will always be based on how much effort I put into it and how hard I work for it. 

I train almost every day. Whether that be soccer training or weight training. Lifting has been something that is consistent in my life for the past few years. It brings me joy and overall makes me healthier and happier. I also find weight training super important for the off-season to prevent injuries and just become stronger everyday. A typical training day for me always has to start the night before with getting at least 6-8 hours of sleep to give me energy for the next day. Next, food is fuel so I get in a good breakfast or meal before, I also remember to get a good stretch in and fully activate my body before any exercise/training. In any training I do, I try to push myself. I believe with everything, consistency is key. Everyday my goal is to be 1% better in everything I do but especially in training. 

I think the right clothing can 100% have a positive effect on my performance and mindset. The way I dress affects how confident I feel or appear. If I feel comfortable in whatever I am wearing I believe it makes me more confident and positive about myself and performance. If I don’t feel comfortable in what I am wearing while training it may make me overthink my performance or throw off my focus. When looking for athletic gear I look for flexible, fit, and comfortable gear. I love wearing Platinum Wave Athletics gear because it is very comfortable. The hoodie is very soft and warm which is perfect for winters in Indiana. I love the leggings because they are very stretchy which I think is very beneficial when lifting and daily activity. Everything fits right and makes me feel confident. 

I spend my downtime or relaxation time: journaling, watching YouTube and spending time with loved ones. Right now I am trying to create habits my future self will thank me for. I hope to make a positive and motivating impact on other’s lives by being myself!