This Valley Stream Central senior scores dual scholarship

Alyssa Santiago, 17, a senior at Valley Stream Central High School, has garnered attention for her remarkable achievements both on and off the soccer field.

Santiago’s journey in soccer began at a young age: approaching the sport with hesitation but which soon turned into a deep passion.

“I started playing soccer when I was around four or five years old,” Santiago said. “Actually, I didn’t really want to play soccer, that wasn’t my goal. But my parents ended up putting me in and I absolutely fell in love with it. And ever since then, I’ve known that I wanted to pursue it.”

Her dedication and talent have recently earned her a dual scholarship for academics and athletics to Mercy University. Santiago’s commitment to the sport was shown early on as she navigated the recruiting process that began in ninth grade.

Through collaborations with her club team, school team and Mercy’s coaching staff, Santiago caught the eye of university scouts and secured her spot at Mercy University.

“They came out to a couple of my games to watch me,” Santiago said. “And from there, I went on visits and talked to the coaches and just was persistent with it. And I ended up getting a scholarship and being able to commit to that school.”

Beyond soccer, Santiago maintains a diverse range of interests and activities. She participates in flag football and various extracurricular activities, including the Eagle TV Club and Yearbook Club.

Academically, plans to major in Business Administration and Marketing at Mercy University. Her dedication to both her studies and athletics demonstrates her approach to personal and academic growth.

Throughout her journey, Santiago acknowledges the support and guidance of her high school varsity coach, Steven Sharkey. His mentorship has played a pivotal role in shaping her into the athlete and individual she is today.

As she prepares to embark on the next chapter of her academic and athletic career, Santiago hopes her story serves as an inspiration to her peers and aspiring athletes alike. With a dual scholarship and a bright future ahead, her success represents determination and achievement in the realm of high school sports.