By Angel Ayala
Staff Writer
Kendra Serrano is a fierce defender for the CSUDH women’s soccer team, but also considered a team player on and off the pitch.
“You can always count on her for anything,” Elisa Martin, junior goalkeeper, said. “She’s one of the nicest girls I know.”
Serrano is hoping to lead her team back to postseason play. The Toros are one of four undefeated teams in the California Collegiate Athletic Assn.
“Kendra is the rock of the team,” Lauren Hall, a midfielder graduate student, said. “During the game, we are always looking at her for advice and support.”
Serrano began playing soccer at the age of eight. Her passion comes from her family, who are soccer enthusiasts.
“I love soccer,” Serrano said. “Soccer is the only sport I ever played, I can’t see myself not playing soccer.”
Her career began at a recreational park, playing in a Sunday league. As she grew older, Serrano joined a traveling team, where she faced high-level competition.
Before transferring to CSUDH, Serrano played at Cypress College. She had planned to move out of state to continue her schooling and playing career, but a visit to Dominguez changed everything.
“I felt like it [CSUDH] was a good fit for me,” Serrano said. “It was close to home. My family could still come and support me.”
With her family close, Serrano is succeeding on and off the field. When she is not dominating on the field, she is providing quality lessons and advice to players at her alma mater, Sunny Hills High School in Fullerton.
With her days at CSUDH coming to an end, she knows that soccer will help her with any endeavor she pursues.
“I see myself as an athletic trainer,” Serrano said. “We’ll see.”
