From Canberra to the USA: Kristy Helmers' Journey of Excellence in College Soccer and Beyond
Kristy Helmers Coaching with youth soccer outfit, Witchita FC in Kansas.
In the world of collegiate soccer, the journey of Upper 90 College alumna Kristy Helmers stands out as a testament to dedication, leadership, and personal growth. Hailing from the Capital Football League Women's in Australia, Kristy's path led her from Tuggeranong United FC to the NCAA D1 soccer stage with Nicholls State University, and beyond.
From Canberra to Nicholls State University:
Kristy Helmers' journey began on the pitches of Tuggeranong United FC in Australia, where her talent and passion for the game shone brightly. Her skills caught the attention of recruiters, and soon she found herself making the leap to NCAA D1 soccer with Nicholls State University Colonels.
A Stellar Four-Year Career:
Kristy Helmers in her playing days with Nicholl’s State University (NCAA D1)
Over four years with the Colonels, Kristy left an indelible mark both on and off the field. Her leadership qualities became evident as she guided the team to success, becoming a pivotal figure for Nicholls State University. In her own words, Kristy reflects on the transformative impact of college soccer in the USA:
“It’s had a lot of impacts, definitely a lot of discipline growing up. Even just being on time for things, we’re trained in soccer to be early to everything that it just carries over to your life. Also, just working in a team, you get used to working with a lot of people and working together.”
She continued, “Just coming here in general from home, I had to leave my family, and it was the first time I lived away from home. It forced me to grow up a bit. Also, soccer, playing at a higher level is definitely an accomplishment, just being a part of a high-quality team. Just in school, definitely being here is the best I’ve ever done in school. I think soccer has a lot to do with that. You want to do good in soccer and you want to do good in school.”
Kristy shared some insights into just how tough the college soccer environment can be, and how it has made her work harder to achieve more:
“Growing up playing in Canberra, it is about winning but also about having fun and I was used to the mentality that if we don’t win, it’s OK,” she said.
“But over there, if you don’t win it is not good enough. It has forced me to play harder and forced me to train harder.
Watch Kristy talk about her college soccer experience during her time with Nicholl’s State University (NCAA D1)
Academic Excellence and Coaching Transition:
Kristy's commitment extended beyond the soccer pitch. She graduated with a degree in Dietetics from Nicholls State, showcasing her dedication not only to athletic success but also to academic achievement. Furthering her education, Kristy pursued a Master's degree, graduating with an MBA and a concentration in Sports Administration from Friends University in Wichita, Kansas.
Transitioning into coaching, Kristy took on an assistant coaching role with Friends University Women's Soccer, contributing her insights and leadership to the team. Her passion for the sport extended into the youth soccer community in Kansas, where she took on the role of Club Director of Soccer Operations with Wichita United, leaving an indelible mark on the development of young players.
Kristy Helmers' journey from Tuggeranong United FC to becoming a leader in NCAA D1 soccer and subsequently in coaching is a story of resilience, discipline, and continual growth. As an Upper 90 College alumna, Kristy not only excelled on the pitch but also utilized her experiences to carve a path into coaching, positively impacting the next generation of soccer players. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes looking to achieve both on and off the field.
