Vera Blom Making Immediate Impact with Gators

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – On this summer’s Sweden to Florida flight, Vera Blom understandably felt a bit nervous. She looked forward to enrolling at the University of Florida and joining the Gator soccer team. Still, there was some unknowns as she set off for her new venture in the Sunshine State.
 
On the morning of August 30, she was presented with another unknown, although its significance was well known to her Gator teammates and coaches. Blom’s 25-yard curler goal the night before at Georgia State landed on ESPN SportsCenter’s Top 10 plays.
 

🐊 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝗮 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗺’𝘀 goal from distance landed on @SportsCenter Top 🔟!#GoGators | 🐊⚽️ pic.twitter.com/SHJo3aDfh1

— Gators Soccer (@GatorsSoccer) August 30, 2024

Her teammates and coaches cheered her SportsCenter Top 10 debut, although Blom is still learning about the U.S. media.
 
“They told me at breakfast that day, but I didn’t really understand what it was,” Blom said. “They were certainly excited for me.
 
“I did share the clip with my family in Sweden. We also have a family friend who lives in the U.S. who let me know he also saw it.”
 
All of her goals this season get plenty of social media replays. Seven games into the season, Blom is making an impact on the team. She leads the team in both goals and points, having three goals and six points for the season.
 
Was this the right move for Blom to come to the land of the Endless Summer? All indications point to yes as she develops her game and academics at the University of Florida.
 
“It was a big step, but I think it was the right step to take,” Blom said.
 

Lots to admire in this 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝗮 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗺 ⚽️ skill set display

🔸Touch

🔸Speed

🔸Shot#GoGators | 🐊⚽️ pic.twitter.com/yrqWpudc4M

— Gators Soccer (@GatorsSoccer) September 13, 2024

 
Decision to Come to Florida:
Blom’s hometown is Spånga, Sweden and she competed on the national level as a member of the Sweden Under-19 National Team after also being a member of their U-18 and U-17 teams. She is also credited with being one of the youngest members of the IF Brommapojkarna of Division I Damallsvenskan after joining the club in 2022 at the age of 17.
 
How does an international soccer player end up at Florida you may ask? The answer is quite simple.
 
“I mean, who wouldn’t choose the University of Florida if you get the opportunity,” said Blom. “They have all the possibilities and opportunities for a person if…