Brianna Valente

Brianna Valente - Elms College junior women's soccer player Brianna Valente (Springfield, Mass.) was selected as this week's female student athlete spotlight.

Valente, a transfer student from Springfield Technical Community College, is in her first season with the women's soccer program and is currently undecided in her major at Elms College.

In her first season on the pitch, Valente has been a dominant force in the defensive third of the field for the Blazers. Valente's stellar play has helped Elms secure three shutout victories this season, two of which came against New England Collegiate Conference (NECC) competition. In a 4-0 victory over Southern Vermont College, she sent a beautiful cross from the right wing to the center of the field which the Blazers converted into a scoring strike giving her an assist on the play.

Briefly describe your favorite sports moment (playing or as a fan):

My favorite sports moment was winning the Western Massachusetts championship my senior year in November of 2008 and also receiving the All-New England Award.

Who has been your biggest influence outside of sports and why:

My parents. They continue to keep me going in whatever I want to do.

Why did you choose to attend Elms College:

York Beach, Maine. I have been going every year with my whole family.

Where is the one place you would like to travel to in the future and why:

What is your favorite sports book or movie:

Love And Basketball