Valerie Llamas first touched a soccer ball at five, chasing a worn-out ball across her grandmother's backyard in California.
The simple joy of that early kick quickly grew into a refuge, a confidence builder, and a canvas for self‑expression that would shape her teenage years.
From High School Captain to College Trailblazer
At Desert Edge High School she rose to team captain, netting 108 goals and adding 42 assists while earning multiple All‑Region honors.
Her leadership extended beyond statistics; she mentored younger teammates, fostering a culture of support and belief that still echoes in the locker room.
Choosing to pursue soccer at the Division I level meant moving from the familiar California climate to the high‑altitude campus of Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff.
The thin air and demanding physicality presented an immediate hurdle, but Llamas earned a spot through relentless work ethic, appearing in 14 matches as a freshman and logging 547 minutes on the field.
Rising Through the Ranks
In her sophomore season she refined her defensive awareness and mindset, contributing three goals and three assists for a total of nine points, a performance that secured second‑team All‑Big Sky honors.
Looking ahead, her personal targets include a first‑team All‑Big Sky selection and the conference’s coveted Golden Boot award.
Head Coach Alan Berrios has repeatedly highlighted her growth, noting that her willingness to be authentically herself is a rare and valuable trait.
Off the pitch, Llamas dreams of being remembered not for trophies but for the humility, approachability, and positive energy she brings to teammates, coaches, and fans alike.