Since the age of 4, West Covina High School senior Madison Perez has poured her time, dedication and passion into soccer – checking into a frame of mind every day that inspires her to push her limits – and her dream is being realized as a center back for the U.S. Under-20 Women’s National Team.
Perez was selected to play in the Under-20s training camp held in early September, when the team faced off against the Japan U-20 Women’s National Team. This week, she was selected for the U-18 team to play next week at a camp at the IMG Academy in Florida.
“It’s very difficult because everyone has so much talent,” Perez said. “Going from the club to the national environment is a huge change.”
Perez, who has played for Legends FC Academy since the age of seven, participates in weekend games where the National Team evaluates her progress. From Monday to Thursday, Perez conditions with her team for two hours, perfecting passing drills, set pieces and tactics.
“I’m very thankful that they saw something in me,” Perez said. “I am blessed to be considered one of the top girls in the nation.”
Perez was first recognized by the Women’s National Team in September 2018 and was selected for the U-17 team. She keeps the U-20 World Cup in her sights and will find out if she made the qualifiers in January 2020.
After graduation, Perez will continue her soccer career at Cal State Long Beach and hopes to play for the National Team.
“Being a student-athlete has taught me discipline and has helped me be organized and manage time,” Perez said. “West Covina High School works with me to get my school work done, and they are always rooting for me and supporting my soccer career.”