The goalkeeper has spent three seasons with the Gators, but didn’t see the field as a freshman or sophomore. Instead, Faraci’s played a deeper role on the team that expanded beyond the playing field.
“Becky [Burleigh] recruited me to come to Florida for the person I am, the leader I am and to bring leadership qualities to the team. And so that was always a big role of mine,” says Faraci.
She prides herself as a supportive teammate and good friend for the teammates around her.
Faraci’s positive attitude shines through to her peers, and she has made heartwarming relationships with her teammates. The friends Faraci has made hold a special place in her heart, as they’ve saved her from many of her darkest times.
“I’ve been pretty low and depressed at times, which I think a lot of college athletes experience. The people in the program honestly saved my life. They never give up on me. And they do everything to make sure I’m okay and always check in,” says Faraci.
Each year has been full of diverse challenges for Faraci. From coaching changes and a global pandemic which added mental health challenges, Faraci has battled a lot of hard fights. But the people around her have helped her through it all.
“I’ve wanted to quit. I wanted to give up so many times,” says Faraci, “But the friendships and relationships I’ve developed… that is the part for me that I couldn’t give up.”
Although Faraci struggled to find value in her place on the team, she has always been inspired by the friends she has to continue on. Her love for the University of Florida is strong because of the care she has felt from the people around her. Faraci is especially thankful to Becky Burleigh for recruiting kind individuals that Faraci holds dear to her, including her best friend Kouri Peace and former goalkeeper Susi Espinoza. She also credits her strength coach, Karin Werth, for always encouraging her and helping her get into the best shape of her life. Every individual who has been there for Faraci over the years gave her energy when she was down. Now, she hopes to stay energized to end her Florida career on a high note.
“You know, sometimes as a college athlete,…
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