Ariana Garcia_2021

Ariana Garcia

Ariana Garcia

Assistant Women's Soccer Coach / Reserve Team Head Coach

Ariana Garcia returned to Aquinas College in 2026 as an Assistant Women's Soccer Coach while also serving as head coach of the Saints' reserve team. A former Saints standout, Garcia brings elite playing experience, a passion for player development and a deep understanding of the culture that has helped elevate Aquinas women's soccer.

As a member of the coaching staff, Garcia is committed to mentoring student-athletes while helping them develop both on the field and in the classroom. Having recently completed one of the most successful playing careers in program history, she offers current student-athletes a unique perspective on what it takes to compete and succeed at the collegiate level.

Garcia earned her bachelor's degree in Health Science from Aquinas College after serving as a four-year captain and becoming a four-time NAIA First Team All-American, four-time Academic All-American and NAIA Honorable Mention selection. She also represented the United States on the U.S. Youth National Futsal Team in Costa Rica and won two national championships with Midwest United FC while capturing numerous state and regional titles. In addition to her collegiate coaching duties, Garcia has spent the past three years coaching with Midwest United FC.

Garcia chose to return to Aquinas because it represents a full-circle moment in her career. She credits the program for helping shape her as both a player and a person and is excited to give back by helping today's student-athletes experience the same growth, success and family atmosphere she enjoyed as a Saint.

Outside of soccer, Garcia enjoys working out, spending time outdoors and being with family. Soccer has always been a family passion, as her father, Leo Garcia, has coached the game for more than 30 years and currently serves as a director and coach at Midwest United FC.

Quick Facts

Position: Assistant Women's Soccer Coach / Head Coach, Reserve Team

Joined Aquinas: 2026

Hometown: Kentwood, Michigan

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Health Science, Aquinas College

Playing Honors:

  • Four-time NAIA First Team All-American
  • Four-time Academic All-American
  • NAIA Honorable Mention
  • Team Captain

Previous Experience:

  • Coach, Midwest United FC (3 years)
  • U.S. Youth National Futsal Team
  • Midwest United FC (2 National Championships)

Family:

  • Father: Leo Garcia
  • Mother
  • Sisters: Amalia and Marissa
  • Brother: Jayden
  • Nephews: Julian and Ares

Hobbies: Playing soccer, working out, spending time outdoors and with family