A Determined Path
Jada Cano, a Political Science major at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas, has built a reputation as a fierce competitor in power soccer while championing accessibility for people with disabilities.
Diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy at just two years old, Cano turned a lifelong challenge into a driving force for independence, discovering power soccer at age five and quickly rising to co‑captain her team.
Her leadership extends beyond the court; she serves as vice president of the Rattler Mock Trial Association, where she helps organize practices and mentors new members, fostering confidence and critical thinking among peers.
Cano’s ambitions reach internationally. She is currently vying for a spot on the U.S. National Power Soccer Team that will compete in the Powerchair Football World Cup in Argentina, a tournament that promises to showcase the sport’s growing global footprint.
In 2025, she traveled to England with the national squad, an experience that highlighted both the competitive spirit of the team and the supportive community that surrounds her.
Balancing a demanding academic schedule with athletic commitments, Cano plans to attend St. Mary’s University School of Law after graduation, aiming to blend her passion for justice with the advocacy skills honed on the field.
Friends and mentors, including longtime collaborator Arturo Vega, describe her as relentless and compassionate, traits that have propelled her through every obstacle.
Advocacy and Community
Cano’s advocacy work focuses on making sports facilities and educational resources more accessible, a mission that resonates with university officials and disability rights groups alike.
Through her role in the Mock Trial Association, she has helped create a supportive environment that encourages students to voice their ideas and develop confidence in public speaking.
Her story illustrates how determination, combined with a supportive network, can transform personal challenges into opportunities for broader impact.