By Megan Maharry
Sports Editor
Audrey Salas is a senior health and sports science major with a minor in sports phycology. With finals approaching, Salas is preparing for her final spring semester in Alva and at NWOSU.
Salas was born in Pomona, California and raised in Moreno Valley, California. She began playing soccer at age four and her talent led her to play this season as a Lady Ranger here at NWOSU.
Growing up, Salas played club and high school soccer. During her club career, she played on an all boys’ team, but didn’t fail to hold her own.
Salas first began her collegiate career at San Bernardino Community College. She played for two years before transferring to NWOSU.
While at San Bernardino, Salas and her team competed in high level competition in the quarterfinals in 2016. Salas said she and her team played the No. 7 ranked team in the nation, and that team went on to win the national title that year.
Salas said playing at that high level was intense and she really enjoyed it.
Once her time was up, Salas took on a new level of competition as she committed to play here at NWOSU.
Leaving sunny California for dusty Oklahoma was an adjustment, Salas said. She said it was lonely and a culture shock.
“It was different, but the girls made it worthwhile,” Salas said.
Salas has been a part of the NWOSU soccer team for two years and despite having to redshirt last year, she was a critical player for the Lady Rangers this season.
Salas played the majority of her games in the midfield position. Her tactical skills and ball handling abilities earned her Second-Team All Great American Conference Honors.
Reflecting back on her final season, Salas said she wished she could have done more; however, she doesn’t regret anything.
“I wasn’t fully capable of reaching what I wanted to reach,” Salas said.
Her advice for next year’s team is to work on communication and not bring drama onto the field. She said they need to have more energy on the field and more passion for the sport.
Upon graduation in May, Salas said she plans to return home to California and attend UC San Diego or San Diego State to obtain a Master’s in occupational therapy.
She said she would eventually like to work with animals or little kids.
Salas said she has enjoyed her time at NWOSU.
“I love all the random things we do,” Salas said. “When we play ultimate frisbee or indoor in the armory. Random activities.”