“I am beyond excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Point Loma Nazarene University.

Coach Tanner, Coach Kristi, and Coach Mark, from the moment I stepped on campus in 8th grade, I knew. I’ve dreamt of lacing up my cleats with “Point Loma” on my jersey. It’s the culture, the faith, and the family environment you’ve built that make this place special. I am beyond grateful for this opportunity.

To my friends and teammates, thank you for all the smiles and for pushing me to be my best self, unapologetically.

To Coach Jim, Helena, Katie, Leo, Kristina, and Ron, thank you for shaping me into the player and person I am today. You pushed me, believed in me, and helped me fall in love with the game at every stage. I’m forever grateful.

To Shay, Keenie, and Momaw, I’m so grateful for the love and support you’ve always provided. I’ll always carry that with me. Thank you for being such a huge piece of this process.

Mom, I don’t have the words to express my gratitude. If I become even half the woman you are, I’d be honored. The sacrifice you made going part-time will never be forgotten. You served others all day and still came home to serve our family with love. You showed me that “what doesn’t challenge you won’t change you.” The way you handle hard days and still show up as Mom is a superpower. Thank you for your patience, your love, and for teaching me to be proud of who I am, with or without soccer. Your faith gave me something to hold onto when mine was small.

Dad, the way you’ve led our home as a man of God has built trust and confidence in me. You’ve shown me to believe actions over words. “If you want what others don’t have, you have to work for what others won’t”, and “there’s a difference between meeting a standard and setting it”-those aren’t just words, they’re how I live. Thank you for the countless hours training, listening, and always being proud of me. Thank you for always treating me like your little girl, no matter how badly I said I wanted to grow up.

And most importantly, my foundation, the Lord. I would not have the blessing of calling this place and these people “home” without His guidance.” — Ireland McAuliffe