At five years old, Dana Hubbard tried soccer for the first time, not knowing that it would lead to great success in her future. Now a senior, and graduating in just a few months, Hubbard prepares to play soccer at the collegiate level at her future university, Mars Hill.

Soon to be a Mars Hill Lion, Dana will major in occupational therapy, seeking to work with children, and to help with their mobility and motion. She feels empowered knowing that she can have an impact on children’s lives, in her future place of work, expressing, “My goal is to enjoy it, [occupational therapy] and make a difference in kids’ lives.” 

But it wasn’t easy getting to where she is now, considering that throughout her soccer journey, she also experienced drawbacks. 

Dana is no stranger to injuries as she was taken out of playing for around 2 months, when fluid was found in her knee. Despite these setbacks, which Dana would describe as a minor inconvenience, she is back and better, ready to soon play at the collegiate level she has always dreamed of.

Dana has also been mentally challenged by her sport. At some point during her soccer journey, she experienced doubt in her desire to keep playing, due to coaches that she’s had in the past. She explained how, “During my soccer career, I’ve had coaches that weren’t the nicest.” She continued with, “I would sit in the car and not want to get out and play, which is not my personality at all.” However, Dana was able to overcome the negativity with the love and support of her family, friends, and new coaches, who helped her reconstruct her love for the sport. Having dedication to school and soccer were a reflection of how she persevered throughout the hardships, both physically and mentally, in her career.