Mila Mzamane Makes NJCAA Division I All-America Team

Freshman soccer player Mila Mzamane has been named a third team All American for NJCAA Division I, making history as the first All American from USC Union. Mzamane won Region 10 Player of the Year this semester and was first in the nation for assists in Division I. 

Mzamane says that he did not anticipate such achievements for his first year in college. "At first, I expected to settle in and get used to my new surroundings," he said. His biggest challenge was learning how the playing style here in America is different from his home of Johannesburg, South Africa. "In Europe and Africa there is more buildup and pacing," he said. "Here, it's very fast, non-stop, you play really quickly for 90 minutes." Through hard work with Head Coach Marc Curlee and Assistant Coach Zach Curlee, he gained more confidence each week of the season. "You try to work hard and hopefully it pays off. Talent can't be everything," he said. "I could not have done it without my coaches and teammates."

Mzamane is excited to celebrate with his family when he goes home for winter break. He says that his late uncle, Pete Jacobs, was his biggest inspiration in pursuing soccer. "He tried to become a professional footballer and [inspired me] with the stories he told," he said. "I already knew I loved the sport, but he put it in perspective for me. Football was his escape from life. It's the same thing for me – when I am on the field, all problems go away."

"Mila was a standout this year. He is a good player and a good student. This award is well deserved and is a step in the right direction for the program," stated Head Coach Marc Curlee. "Mila is such a great young man and this award is great for him and for our university," said Athletic Director Zach Simmons. "Mila is talked about mainly for his athletic ability on the field, but he is also one of the nicest and most respectful young men that I have had the pleasure of being around. This award can take him so far in life, but the respect and kindness that he shows to others is what will carry him into his bright future."