The Stories of Our 2025 Football Champions
A closer look at our football players’ journeys to becoming champions
The 2025 season brought incredible success for our football players across the US. We couldn’t be prouder to see them reach the top and become champions with their teams.
We spoke to four of our players to hear about their championship-winning seasons and what it took to get there. They opened up about the teamwork, dedication, and unforgettable moments that made their dreams come true. Here are their stories.
Jessica Reiss | Oral Roberts University (NCAA DI)
For Jessica Reiss, her first year at Oral Roberts University was extraordinary. The German goalkeeper helped her team win the regular season title for the first time since 2004.
Moving from junior college to Division I brought new challenges, but also the level of competition Jessica was looking for. “It was a lot different from my experience at JUCO. The competitiveness that comes with it is a lot, but it’s exactly what I wanted,” she explained.
“The team has worked for years to become champions. We won the regular season and hosted the tournament. Our biggest goal was to make it to nationals. Unfortunately, we lost in the final of the conference tournament, but I am sure that we will be back next year.”
The team won the regular season title at home on senior night, making the moment even more meaningful. “The changing room was all decorated. Winning the title that day made it even more special. We celebrated a bit but quickly focused on the upcoming games, trying to win the conference.”
With her first Division I season behind her, Jessica is already looking ahead. Her determination and ambition make it clear that this is only the beginning of her journey at Oral Roberts University.
Sara Irurozki | Southeastern University (NAIA)
Sara Irurozki made a big impact in her first season at Southeastern University. The Spanish forward played a key role in helping her team win both the regular season and the Sun Conference tournament — one of the most competitive conferences in the NAIA.
Sara highlighted the strong team culture as one of the main reasons behind their success. “The bond between us has been incredible; we’ve been a tight-knit group since the beginning of the season,” she shared. Team meetings and group activities helped them connect on and off the pitch.
“I think we’ve all embraced our roles and played for the team. The unconditional support among us has been very special… it’s a support I’ve never experienced before in other teams.”
This unity translated into historic achievements for the programme. “We’ve gradually climbed the ranks to number 15 in the country. We broke many records this year!”
What made the experience even more special was the support on campus. “People would stop me to ask questions and congratulate us. Seeing other athletes celebrate our success was something unique.”
With a first year like this, Sara has set the bar high, and the future looks just as bright.
“I’m incredibly grateful for what the coaches and Keystone Sports have done for me. I’ve trusted the process and believed in this project,” she said.
Francisco Sanches do Nascimento | Joliet Junior College (JUCO)
Francisco Sanches do Nascimento, a midfielder from Portugal, also had a dream first season in the US. He and his team claimed both the regular season title and the tournament championship.
For Francisco, these achievements reflect months of hard work and growth. “Winning both titles means a lot to us,” he shared. “It shows how much work we put in from day one and how much we have grown as a team. For me personally, it proves that all the sacrifices were worth it and that we can compete with anyone when we stay united.”
When asked about his favourite moment from the championship, Francisco didn’t hesitate: “The best memory was definitely the final whistle in the championship final. Seeing everyone sprint onto the pitch, celebrating together, coaches and teammates hugging each other… that moment felt unreal, and it’s something I will remember for the rest of my life.”
Looking ahead, the young midfielder is already focused on the future. He hopes to keep improving, take on more leadership, and help his team return to the top. “I want to develop as a player, get stronger, and prepare myself for the next level in college football.”
Carla Carmona | Missouri Valley College (NAIA)
Our Spanish midfielder, Carla Carmona, lifted the conference trophy in her final year as a college athlete.
She explains why the team was so successful this season. “A key factor was the team’s experience, since the vast majority of us are seniors,” she said. “Having shared so many years together, we’ve built a great family, and that’s very evident on the pitch, in the confidence and security we project.”
When thinking back on the tournament, one moment stands above the rest. “My teammate scored a golden goal in the semifinal — it gave us the pass to the final against our biggest rival, CMU.”
Carla also carried a lot of emotion going into the final. “The first thing that came to mind before winning the tournament was my grandfather, and as soon as we won, I thought about how proud I was of all the hard work of the entire team and all the months I had spent dreaming of that moment.”
As she reflects on her college journey, Carla has clear advice for students considering studying in the United States: “Don’t think twice and take the opportunity of a lifetime. Coming to this country opens doors all over the world. Not just in football, but in every aspect. It’s important to come with an open mind, without fear of making mistakes, and eager to learn and get the most out of everything.”
These championship wins are a testament to what’s possible with hard work, resilience, and the right support system. We’re incredibly proud of our athletes and can’t wait to see what they’ll achieve next. Their stories remind us why college sports are such a special experience.
If you want to follow their example and compete in the United States, fill out our free evaluation. Our experts will inform you about your chances of getting a sports scholarship!
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Lorena Montañés
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