When Brazilian forward Ana Carol Rodrigues arrived at Monroe College in 2013, head soccer coach Jonathan Garbar had high expectations for his newest recruit. But even he wasn't entirely prepared for the incredible impact that she would have on the school's already robust program.
Former Juazeiro resident Ana Carol – or just "Carol" to those that know her – started playing soccer at just six years old. Her entry into the sport was not entirely planned and was a result of her older brother who, charged with the task of babysitting her, preferred to play soccer with his friends. Not one to sit on the sidelines, Carol insisted on joining in – a fortuitous decision by any measure!
The undeniable talent that she displays on the pitch today is complemented by her pleasant nature and determination. She arrived at Monroe clearly ready to refine her game and, under the careful mentoring of NSCAA National Coach of the Year Jonathan Garbar, went from strength to strength, constantly honing her agility and skillset. And, of course, her Mustangs teammates, with whom she had come to develop close friendships, were delighted when this hard work paid off and Carol was deservedly selected last year to represent Brazil as part of the women's Under-20 team at the World Cup in Canada.
She was also named captain of the Monroe women's soccer team for the 2014 season, and subsequently led her team to a national tournament victory — scoring the game-winning goal in double overtime to secure the NJCAA Division I National Championship. This was the perfect conclusion to a highly successful season for Carol, during which she scored 19 goals and passed for nine assists.
It came then as little surprise for Mustangs fans when, in recognition of her evident ability and sportsmanship, she was named by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) as a First-Team All-American and also designated as Attacking Player of the Tournament.
Having graduated from Monroe with an associate's degree, she will this fall continue her business studies and soccer training at the University of Central Florida's distinguished NCAA Division I program on a full scholarship. Though sad to see her move on, we're certain that she will be an equally remarkable asset to the Lady Knights and wish her the best of luck in what promises to be a glittering soccer career!
