Ariana Garcia returns to Aquinas as an Assistant Coach for the Women’s Soccer program, bringing with her both coaching experience and a deep understanding of what it means to wear the Saints crest.
A graduate of Aquinas College with a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science, Garcia is no stranger to the program’s culture and expectations. As a former standout for the Saints, she was part of one of the most successful eras in program history, helping Aquinas break records and advance farther than any team before it. Her accomplishments as a student-athlete included First Team All-Conference, All-Academic honors, and NAIA Honorable Mention recognition.
Following her playing career, Garcia continued her development in the game as a coach with Midwest United FC, further strengthening her passion for player growth and team culture.
Garcia said returning to Aquinas felt like a natural decision because of the lasting connection she has with the school, the women’s soccer program, and the community that helped shape her as both a player and person. She is excited to now help the next generation of Saints continue building on the program’s championship-level standard.
Originally from the West Michigan area, Garcia lives in Kentwood and comes from a deeply soccer-rooted family. Her father serves as a coach and director with Midwest United FC, while her mother was a former goalkeeper. She also enjoys spending time with her two older sisters, younger brother, and two nephews, in addition to her continued love for soccer and coaching.
