VESTAL, N.Y. - Freshman
Nicole Rago has her sights set on a career in law but first she will defend on the soccer field. The Parsippany, N.J. native arrives on campus with both a strong soccer pedigree and family support. In this Q&A, we learn more about her background and her journey to Binghamton.
When did you first start participating in soccer?
I first started participating in soccer when I was in Kindergarten and my first memory is running around with my jersey past my knees dribbling towards the pug goal.
Which family member(s) were the impetus/inspiration for you to compete?
My dad was my inspiration to compete. He was a keeper and played at a collegiate level, and I always wanted to be just like him, so I started competing myself.
When did you realize you were good enough and interested in becoming a Division I athlete?
I realized I was good enough when my club coach Sarah Brady told me I had the potential to do great things and play at the Division I level. Since that moment I pushed myself to reach that goal of becoming a Division I athlete.
What do you love most about soccer?
I love being part of a team because it feels like your family, and I also love the feeling of celebrating a win together.
Favorite memory on the soccer field?
My favorite memory was when I scored the winning goal against our rival high school team because that was the first time we won in years and I was able to play and win with my older sister.
What are your greatest individual and team accomplishments?
My greatest individual accomplishment was getting recruited to play at Binghamton University, and my greatest team accomplishment was being semifinalists at nationals.
Any special reason you chose your jersey number?
28 is my birthday and it was the first jersey I've ever worn
Do you have a nickname? What's the origin of it?
Most people call me Nic or Rago. My last name is short and easy to say so I guess it kinda stuck.
Who are your idols/mentors?
My idols are my Nonna and Nonno because they have worked so hard for all that they have accomplished, and they make me want to push myself to be better everyday and always encourage me to follow my dreams.
Who has had the greatest impact on your life?
My parents have the greatest impact on my life because they have constantly pushed me and supported me, but they have also been the greatest role models a person could have. They are both such hard working, good hearted people and that has definitely shaped who I am today.
Most people don't know this about me …
I also love snowboarding and surfing.
My best non-athletic talent is …
Balancing things on my head.
Any pregame rituals or superstitions?
I always put braids in my hair and pray before every game because being able to play is a privilege.
Any family members who played collegiately?
My dad played collegiately at William Paterson University.
Any family or friend connection to Binghamton University?
Yes, I have a lot of family friends that are alumni of the university.
How many siblings do you have and where are you in the birth order?
I have two other sisters and I am the middle child.
Five years from now I would like to be …
In law school.
Best vacation you've ever taken?
A cruise to the Bahamas with my cousins.
What were the challenges that COVID presented to you as you finish up your high school senior year?
It was difficult to do virtual learning, but I just took a lot of notes, and watched Youtube videos that further explained topics I didn't understand to help me continue to learn.
What has been your mindset as you begin your college career under these unique circumstances?
Just to be in the best shape I can be, to push myself as hard as I can, and to always give 110% no matter what. I am looking forward to getting stronger, and faster, and getting close with all my teammates and coaches.
What are your personal goals for your sport and academics during 2021-22?
I would like to make the academic team, and hopefully play my freshman year.
Why did you choose Binghamton?
I chose Binghamton because the minute I stepped onto campus it felt like home. I was also drawn by the prestigious academic reputation of the school, and the amazing soccer program that I am very excited to be a part of.
