SoccerWire is publishing Q&A articles with recently-committed players who have Featured Profiles in the SoccerWire Recruiting Directory. The series allows players to share their stories on the college recruiting process, travel and high school soccer, and their passion for the beautiful game.
In this edition we will showcase Catalina Benavente, who has verbally committed to play NCAA Division I soccer in 2025 at UNC Greensboro. Benavente plays travel soccer in the ECNL for FC Prime.
Benavente plays for FC Prime in the ECNL and is the captain of the South Fork Varsity High School team.
SoccerWire: What made you decide to commit to UNC Greensboro?
Catalina Benavente: UNCG’s soccer program is known for its excellence, both athletically and academically. The coaches are great people and I can see myself learning and growing under their leadership. Their dedication to player development and the team’s competitive spirit aligns perfectly with my aspirations as a player. The balance between athletics and academics is also important to me. UNCG is committed to supporting its student-athletes which ensures that I can pursue my educational goals while excelling in soccer. Their facilities are impressive and the stadium is absolutely spectacular and gorgeous! I cannot wait to play on that pitch! Ultimately, the opportunity to be part of an amazing soccer program, receive a quality education and be surrounded by good people in the coaches and players, made committing to UNCG an easy decision for me.
SW: What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
CB: The recruiting process was quite the journey! I somewhat knew what to expect since my older sister, Bella successfully went through it herself. However, at times it was overwhelming navigating the demands of showcasing my skills, maintaining my grades and having continuous communication with coaches. As I engaged with various coaches on calls and visits, I learned the importance of using feedback to improve and adapt. The process revealed my strengths and areas for growth, not just as an athlete but also an individual. Communication, time management and self-discipline became crucial skills while balancing academics, training and conversations with coaches. Interacting with different coaches showed me what I truly valued in a program such as coaching philosophy, academic support, team culture and overall fit with the university. Above all, the recruiting process has taught me about self-belief. Believing in my abilities, staying true to my goals, and being open to growth.
SW: When did you first start playing midfield and what do you like most about the position?
CB: I started playing midfield when I was around 10 years old. My coach at the time, Brad Partridge moved me from the number 9 to the 10 and the rest is history. I am where I am today because Coach Partridge trusted my abilities to excel in a role that demands a blend of offense and defensive capabilities. What I love most about playing the midfield is being able to control the game and create goal-scoring opportunities. As a midfielder, you’re involved in almost every aspect of the game. You’re the link between defense and offense, responsible for both supporting the defense and initiating attacking plays. I enjoy the challenge of breaking up opposition plays, intercepting passes, and providing defensive support to the team. At the same time, being involved in building attacks and controlling the tempo of the game is incredibly rewarding.
SM: What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
CB: My favorite subject in school is History because I like to learn about the past and what it used to be like. I think I would like to study architecture or forensics in college, but I’m still undecided.
SW: Outside of soccer, what clubs, organizations, and/or jobs are you involved in?
CB: Outside of soccer, I am a member of Student Aces and the International Baccalaureate Program. I also participate in various community service and volunteering opportunities. I just started taking flying lessons and love to play pickleball in my spare time.
SW: What are some of your soccer New Year’s Resolutions that you have for 2024? In other words, what are some of your goals for yourself on the field and for your club team and your high school team?
CB: My goal is to continue improving my endurance, speed, and agility to maintain peak physical conditions throughout matches. I want to help my club team perform consistently well in our league matches the rest of the season. And, in high school I want to work collectively with my team so we can make a run deep into the playoffs while setting a positive example for my younger teammates as team captain.
SW: What are your favorite pair of cleats that you have ever owned?
CB: My Lime Green Nike Mercurial Victory VI DF FG. They were like magic boots!
SW: What was your experience been like playing for FC prime?
CB: Playing for FC Prime has been an overall positive experience. The ECNL platform provides an elite level of competition which is constantly challenging me to elevate my game and showcase my skills at the highest level. This exposure has been invaluable for my personal growth as a player. Additionally, the visibility to college coaches has provided a fantastic pathway for me to fulfill my dreams of playing soccer at next level.
SW: If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play at a high level, what would it be?
CB: Consistency is key. Train regularly and mind over matter. It’s not just about the hours you put in but the quality of your training. Focus on improving a little each day rather than aiming for overnight success. And remember, pushing through injuries and challenges is a big part of reaching that high level. Finally, in that important game, use your nerves as energy!
SW Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both off and on the field?
CB: I would like to give a huge shoutout to my parents for their support, love and constant encouragement. From early morning games to late-night practices, they were always there cheering me on. Their belief in me, even when I doubted myself is something that I will never forget. By always being there and driving me to trainings 1.5 hours away and spending countless hours in the car each week or spending a ton of money and time to travel with me to showcases and events, showed me the true meaning of dedication and sacrifice. The values they instilled in me such as perseverance and discipline are the same values that drive me both on and off the field. I have also received amazing training at the hands of many talented coaches and trainers that I could never thank enough or possibly repay for the positive impact they have had on my journey.
