When Texas soccer player Ariana Brothers was just 5 years old, her father showed her and her sister various YouTube videos that featured the top soccer programs in the country. Now she can say she's playing for one of those programs.
“It's actually kind of cool. I think about it a lot. It doesn't seem like it was that long ago that he showed it to me, but now that I'm in it, it's actually pretty fun.” said Brothers. “He showed me around schools like Texas and Tennessee, but it was always schools in the South. So being in an environment that he once saw on YouTube and wanted to be here, It's really amazing.”
Earning a chance to play in Division 1 soccer was already a challenge, but a hip injury quickly changed things for the then 13-year-old Brothers. Her bilateral fractures will keep her off the field for a year and a half.
Although she had to sit on the sidelines, Brothers' injury and subsequent experience would shape the rest of her career.
“There were a lot of setbacks during that time. Of course, after a year and a half, you'll have a lot of time to reflect and think about what your future holds,” Brothers said. “It was difficult, but at the same time it was helpful because I was able to learn more about the game and develop my mental skills for the game.”
But it wasn't just the spiritual aspect that helped Brothers come back stronger, but her family as well. When Brothers turned to her family for support, her already strong foundation became even stronger.
“They took me to every PT session. They saw me everywhere they could go,” the brother said. “They made sure I was in good condition because it was a very painful injury.”
With family by their side, the Brothers eventually made a comeback. After rising through the ranks of youth soccer, Brothers earned a provisional spot on the U.S. U-17 Youth National Team in 2022 after verbally committing to Texas.
Now officially Longhorns, Brothers is thriving. As a true freshman, she appeared in 19 games and started five from the center field position. She also scored her goal last season in a 7-0 win over Stephen F. Austin.
“My teammates on the field were so excited, and then my parents called me. There was a big family group chat with the whole family, and everyone was texting in it. '' said the brother. “I definitely felt supported.”
The brothers, originally from Seattle, Washington, moved to Austin early last summer to get used to their new surroundings. What could have been an obstacle for her became a welcome experience.
“It was a great environment to come to as a Washingtonian. Everyone was very enthusiastic and inviting. They were excited to be challenged every day,” the brothers said. “They're going to hold me accountable, and I think we're all at a point in the team talking in a way where we can hold each other accountable.”
The sense of community and reinforcement that Brothers receives from his family and teammates provides an environment in which he can thrive.
“My parents and teammates really supported me. Being so far from home can be difficult,” the brother said. “They help me stay grounded, centered, and develop myself.”
