As soon as she scored her first two goals in her very first soccer game she knew this was something she wanted to do and was willing to work at.

Briana Destefano has been playing soccer ever since she was four years old. Soccer has drastically changed Destefano’s life.

As soon as she entered high school, she knew she wanted to try out for the Perry High School soccer team. With some motivation, determination, and just mere talent, Destefano was granted a spot on the varsity team as a freshman.

Perry High School has been privileged to have Destefano take an important part in the varsity soccer program for the past four years. Now, with it being her senior year, she has been honored to be one of the head captains along with senior Ansley Warner and junior Carly Sandstedt.

“Soccer is my life, it’s what I do best,” Destefano said. “It defines me as a person and makes me stronger not only on the field but off.”

Although she has participated on several different soccer programs throughout her life, Perry has guided her and helped mold her into the athlete she is today.

Her coaches have played a drastic role in her soccer career. When asked of her coaches and teammates, she has nothing but positive words to say.

Head girls soccer coach, Jason Dunn, has 36 years of soccer experience in addition to being a past club and the boys soccer coach at Basha High School.

“He uses his knowledge and skills to make us a better team,” Destefano stated. “Coach Dunn knows what the team is capable of and believes we will go far, and that is the inspiration we need.”

In addition to her coaches, Destefano’s teammates have also been there for her every step of the way and have guided her in the right direction as a soccer player.

With the Pumas having several different types of players and athletes on the team, this has benefited Destefano and has helped adapt her to different levels and playing styles. This has shaped her into the stellar soccer athlete she is known as today.

“The great thing about our team is that everyone is talented,” Destefano said.

Seniors Ansley Warner, Marisa Costagliola, Renjae Burch, Elizabeth Myron, along with Destefano herself have the responsibility of being great role models and leaders for the younger players on the team.

With all of these talented girls, along with Destefano herself, the season looks to be a successful one for the lady pumas.