By ROY HESS, Staff Writer
Moving on to play college soccer is a natural progression for standout Lopez defender Michell Salinas.
A four-year starter and key member of three district championship teams for the Lady Lobos in 2014, 2016 and 2017, Salinas signed a college scholarship agreement Thursday at Lopez to play next school year for Texas A&M International University in Laredo.
At TAMIU she will be reunited with former Lopez teammate Samantha Ruiz, a talented midfielder who graduated a year ago and was the 2016 All-Metro girls MVP.
“I’m very excited about this day and I appreciate all the chances (Lopez) Coach (Alex) Macias gave me to play since I was a freshman,” said Salinas, who was named all-district defensive MVP after her junior and senior seasons besides receiving All-Metro honors. “He kept giving me chances (to play) all the way through my senior year, it got me up to where I am now and it’s paying off.
“I already know one of the girls over there (at TAMIU in Ruiz), so I know I won’t be alone,” Salinas added. “I can always count on Sam for anything.”
Salinas, who plans to pursue an elementary education major at TAMIU, signed her college scholarship agreement in front of family, classmates, coaches and other Brownsville ISD personnel.
Macias said having Salinas at sweeper for four years always made him feel at ease about the Lady Lobos’ defense. He said she certainly will be missed.
“I always felt confident going on the field with Michell back there (anchoring the defense),” the Lady Lobos coach said. “With her experience, you felt good about the team. Her leadership out there really did help the confidence of the girls. Her chemistry with the team brought the girls together.
“I think Michell is prepared (to play in college),” he added. “I played in college, so I know what the coaches there expect and what they want. She’s ready, she’s willing and I think she’s going to be a success.”
Salinas thanked her coaches and teammates, and in particular, her parents Miguel and Maria Salinas.
“I think it will be hard and challenging to play in college, but it’s going to be a great experience,” she said. “I’d like to thank my parents for their support through all my years of playing soccer.”