After a devastating injury ended her time at the University of Miami, Bryana Flores is fighting to reclaim her soccer career and prove that setbacks don’t define her, determination does
By: Justin Williams
After suffering this injury while playing for the University of Miami, Bryana Flores found herself at a crossroads, facing the possibility that her soccer career might be over. Forced to return to her hometown of Staten Island, she now finds herself on a path of resilience, determination, and self-discovery which won’t be easy.
“Everything happens for a reason,” Flores said. “Bouncing back from this injury will be the hardest thing I’ve had to go through, but I’m ready.”
Flores had always dreamed of playing at the collegiate level, and when she committed to the University of Miami, it felt like the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. As a forward, she was known for her speed, and goal-scoring abilities. However, her promising career was derailed when she suffered a severe ankle injury that required multiple surgeries, forcing her to step away from the game she loved.
Returning home and enrolling at the College of Staten Island (CSI) was not part of her original plan, but Flores saw it as an opportunity rather than a setback. She knew she had something to prove—not just to herself but to everyone who had ever doubted her ability to make a comeback.
Recovery has been grueling, both physically and mentally. Day in and day out, Flores commits herself to rehabilitation, pushing through pain and setbacks with an unwavering mindset. She spends hours in physical therapy, working with trainers to rebuild her body back up. The process has tested her patience, but she remains committed, knowing that each small victory brings her closer to stepping onto the field again. Her goal is clear as she wants to be back on the field, as a member of the CSI Dolphins, and to help turn around a struggling program that finished last season with an 0-12-3 record.
“I need to be strong-minded,” Flores said. “Being mentally tough is 90% of the process. Nothing is going to stop me.”
Her coaches and trainers have taken notice of her determination, with many believing that her experience at Miami and her perseverance through adversity could bring invaluable leadership to the team. Her presence at CSI has already sparked motivation among her peers, many of whom admire her dedication and resilience.
Despite the obstacles, Flores remains hopeful. She envisions herself wearing the Dolphins’ jersey, contributing to the team’s success, and proving that she still has what it takes to compete at a high level. She watches film, analyzes strategies, and stays connected to the sport in every way possible.
“As long as she stays within her faith, she will be okay,” says Flores’s mother. “Everything will fall into place when it needs to.”
“This upcoming season is going to be special,” Flores said. “Make sure you stay tuned in to how things will go next season.”
