University of Arizona’s Very Own Olympic Athlete: Ana Maria Montoya
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Tucson, AZ (Friday, September 21st, 2012) - Ask any young female soccer player from the age of 10 to 16 what their biggest dream is. Odds are they’ll answer with, “To be the next Abby Wambach,” or “To play soccer in college.” Although soccer is still budding amongst young Americans and fans, it is safe to say that young girls, who play, are die hard soccer fans and are willing to dedicate their lives to the game.
University of Arizona midfielder, Ana Maria Montoya, put in the hard work and dedication her whole life which granted her the opportunity to play in the 2012 summer Olympics as a member of the Colombian national team. She started to play for the Columbian women’s national team when she was just fifteen years old. Participating in the world cup as a member of the U-17 team, followed by the U-20 team, Montoya started gaining experience quickly. This past summer she traveled with the team to the Olympics in London.
Montoya says that the experience was amazing and it is something that she will never forget. Her hard work paid off when she subbed onto the field during Colombia’s match up against the United States women’s national team. “Personally, just growing up in the US means a lot more to me than a lot of other people. So, I don’t even know what to say. I’m speechless. It was just a dream come true, to be honest with you. To be at that level and to get where I’ve always dreamed of.”
To all the younger soccer players out there with dreams of playing at the next level, Montoya says it takes a lot of work. “Never give up. Keep pushing. Nothing is going to come easy. It’s those Saturday mornings getting up at eight and just doing extra fitness.
Ana Maria Montoya’s story is a classic one for the books. She is someone with so much passion for the game and so much determination to achieve at a higher level. Her humble attitude and great work ethic are a great combination to create an amazing teammate. She is an asset to any team she is a part of; whether it be the U of A Wildcats, or representing her country, Colombia.
By Elyse Cavolo
