Student-Athlete Testimonies

CHELSEY CORROTO

(2008-11)

“She calls herself Aunt Nikki because she really is a mother-figure to us. I feel comfortable talking to her about anything and everything. She is a very open and understanding. I wouldn’t trade my four years playing for her for anything in the world. I’m a better person because of Nikki Izzo-Brown.”

CHRISSIE ABBOTT

(2000-03)

“During my years at West Virginia University, I came to realize what many before me have understood – WVU is the best collegiate experience in the country. They maximized my talent as a soccer player and prepared me to succeed in the real world upon graduation. I have made lifelong friendships that form the basis for most of what makes the `Mountaineer Experience’ so valuable and rewarding.”

LAURA FINLEY

(2000-03)

“From the moment I stepped on campus, it felt like home. The university embraces all that is WVU, from academics to athletics. The soccer team was beginning to build a tradition of strength, integrity and pride, and I knew everything Coach Izzo-Brown reflected on her players was the type of player I wanted to be.”

NIKKI (GARZON) GOODENOW

(1997-98)

“Being a student-athlete at West Virginia was one of the most rewarding decisions I have ever made. Through hard work and goal setting, we surpassed expectations and always believed in one another. I am truly grateful for the opportunity and will always cherish my time wearing the Old Gold and Blue.”

RENA (LIPPA) LINDSAY

(1996-98)

“As a member of the inaugural team, I look back and treasure the challenges I faced and the amazing opportunities throughout my four years. Not only was I able to capitalize on my skills at a high level of competition, I also learned a lot about myself from the leadership of coach Nikki Izzo-Brown. Overall, my experience is one I refer back to frequently in my everyday life as I continue on as a physical educator and soccer coach.”

CAROLINE SZWED

(2009-13)

“WVU women’s soccer is a program built on hard work, commitment and passion. It also is a program that exemplifies the true meaning of a family, from the staff down to the fans.”