For freshman soccer player Sarah Bain, success didn’t come instantly—it came from persistence, discipline, and a willingness to improve.
Looking back on her journey, Bain is honest about where she started. Through consistent effort and determination, she pushed herself to get better from the very beginning. It wasn’t a hot start for her, but she used it as motivation to eventually earn the opportunity to compete at the college level.
Now in her first year competing in Division III, Bain is already making an impact on her team.
As a freshman earning significant minutes in high-pressure games, she has quickly proven that she belongs. Senior teammate Leyla Strong recognizes this, explaining that Bain has shown “a lot of composure and confidence stepping into high-pressure moments,” reflecting not only her talent but also her strong work ethic and the trust she has built with both her teammates and coaches.
Despite her success on the field, balancing academics and athletics has been one of Bain’s biggest challenges. Like many student-athletes, she has had to learn how to manage her time carefully.
“The hardest thing about balancing academics and athletics is time management, especially during the busy season when practices, games, and travel take up so much of my schedule,” said Bain. “To stay organized and on track, I do homework on the bus ride and mark everything down on my calendar to make sure I keep track of my assignment deadlines.”
That same mindset carries over into her approach to competition. Bain recalls one particular game that stood out to her, not because of the outcome, but because of the team’s effort.
“We went through the first half with no goals but pushed through, continuing to fight and support each other throughout the game. Even though we ultimately lost, I was very proud of myself and my teammates.” Bain found pride in their effort and teamwork, rather than just the scoreboard, highlighting her maturity as both an athlete and a teammate.
Off the field, Bain finds ways to recharge and stay balanced. She enjoys the outdoors and uses nature as an escape from the fast pace of college life. Whether it’s taking a break from schoolwork or stepping away from the pressure of competition, spending time outside helps her reset and come back focused.
Her impact goes beyond her individual performance. Bain has also become an important presence within the team dynamic.
Strong describes her as an amazing teammate who has made a strong impression in a short amount of time. She emphasized that Bain is not only talented but also supportive of fellow teammates. She has built strong connections both on and off the field.
“She always brings amazing energy 100% of the time,” said Strong.
Freshman teammate Adey Pearson shares a similar perspective, describing Bain as hardworking, talkative, and supportive. Their friendship is reflected in both serious and lighthearted moments.
One of Pearson’s favorite memories involves a team activity where she watched Bain try not to step on mousetraps while blindfolded—a moment that highlights Bain’s personality and willingness to have fun with her teammates. Still, Pearson also points to Bain’s performance on the field, noting that her scoring this season has been especially impressive.
Behind Bain’s journey is a strong and consistent support system. She credits her parents as her biggest influence, saying their presence has been constant throughout her career.
“They have supported me the whole way and been to almost all of my games,” Bain said.
That support has helped shape her into the athlete and person she is today.
From her early struggles in the sport to stepping up in key moments as a college freshman, Bain’s journey is defined by hard work, resilience, and a positive mindset.
Whether she’s managing a packed schedule, competing in high-pressure games, or supporting her teammates, she continues to prove that growth comes from effort and that success is about more than just the final score.
