Dakota Merino '23 Recruiting Profile

Since I was 8 years old soccer has been a big part of my everyday life! From the moment I started playing I have always wanted to play college soccer, and eventually it has always been a dream to play professionally. I love being competitive, passionate, determined, and hard working and soccer has always made me feel that way. I love playing on a team and playing for my teammates and coaches. They push me to be my best day in and day out and I love it. Outside of soccer I use my free time hanging out with friends, family, and being outdoors. Ever since I was little I have always loved to hunt with my dad. It can be hard to do much of hunting now because it gets busy but when I can go it is a blast. I also love other outdoor activities like fishing, swimming, and hiking! I don’t like the cold much, but I don’t mind it. I love warm places and especially love being by an ocean. I also love to travel. I’ve had many opportunities through soccer to visit different states around the U.S. Its always fun to travel and do my favorite thing while being with my teammates. Overall I am super excited to see what the future holds for me and ready to keep working harder and harder.