Ithaisa Viñoly: From SIS Free Trial in Tenerife to College and Professional Soccer Success
Ithaisa Viñoly’s remarkable journey from Lanzarote, Spain, to the competitive world of American college soccer began at the SIS Free Trial in Tenerife. It was there that her talent was recognized by Coach Jonathan Garbar, who recruited her to join Franklin Pierce University, marking the start of a promising career.
A Promising Start at Franklin Pierce
After being recruited by Coach Garbar, Ithaisa made an immediate impact at Franklin Pierce University. In her freshman year, she appeared in five games, including four starts, logging 348 minutes in goal. Her strong performances, which included 22 saves and a .759 save percentage, earned her recognition on the Northeast-10 Conference Academic Honor Roll.
Shining at FIU
Ithaisa’s success at Franklin Pierce paved the way for her transfer to Florida International University (FIU), where she continued to excel in the highly competitive C-USA league.
- 2021 (Junior Year): Ithaisa started all 12 of her appearances, playing 1,140 minutes in goal. She recorded a team-high 51 saves, including a season-high 10 saves in a draw against FAU, and posted two shutouts, proving her ability to perform under pressure.
- 2022 (Senior Year): In her senior year, Ithaisa continued her strong form, starting in all 10 of her appearances. She logged 848 minutes, made 33 saves, and consistently delivered solid performances against top teams like Mississippi State and Lipscomb.
- 2023 (Graduate Student Year): In her final season at FIU, Ithaisa played and started in 15 games, logging 1,282 minutes in goal. She led the team with a 0.7 goals-against average and 42 saves, earning six shutouts and a place on the C-USA All-Conference Third Team.
A Leap to Professional Soccer
Following her successful college career, Ithaisa took the next big step by signing with Necaxa Femenil in Liga MX Femenil, one of the world’s most competitive women’s soccer leagues. Her professional debut came against Mazatlán FC, where she immediately secured the starting goalkeeper position, marking the beginning of her professional journey.
A Future Bright with Promise
Ithaisa Viñoly’s story is a testament to hard work, talent, and perseverance. From being recruited at the SIS Free Trial in Tenerife to making her mark in American college soccer and now stepping into the professional arena, Ithaisa continues to break new ground. Her journey serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere, demonstrating that with dedication and the right opportunities, anything is possible.
