by Dianna White

Maxine video blogs on her experiences at the NCAA Sports Forum

Maxine Goynes Bronco Bio

SANTA CLARA, CALIF - Recent Santa Clara graduate and Bronco women's soccer player Maxine Goynes '11 traveled to Indianapolis, Ind. June 12-15 to participate in the 2011 NCAA Sports Forum. Goynes was one of 303 student-athletes selected to participate in this event. Goynes' invitation included a post-grad scholarship to use towards receiving her masters in a sports related field. Goynes applied for the scholarship in January.

"These forums are great because it gives you a chance to network with people," said Goynes. "I was able to meet student-athletes from all over the country and was given the opportunity to listen to people that are involved in sports administration. We learned a lot about how you can take your athletic experience to the next level in terms of a career. I'm really grateful for the experience."

In her senior season as a forward with the Broncos, Goynes was named All-WCC honorable mention for the fourth time as well as WCC All-Academic honorable mention. Santa Clara women's soccer has made 21 NCAA tournament appearances and 10 Final Fours. Last year, the Bronco's fell 2-1 to No. 1 Stanford in the NCAA Tournament's second round. 

At the NCAA forum, student-athletes were divided into color groups for presentations from special guest speakers. Students were separated into two main sections: students that were interested in coaching and students that wanted to pursue a career in sports administration.  

One of Goynes' color coaches was Sharon Clark, the volleyball coach from Butler University. Clark gave insight on how she's been able be a head coach as well as be an administrator. "What I really took away from her was the importance of networking," Goynes said about Clark. "She also encouraged us to be in a place where people are supportive and surround yourself with mentors that can help you meet your goals."

The other color coach that made an impact on Goynes' was Greg Jarvis, the Assistant Athletic Director at Meredith College in Raleigh, N.C. He discussed the possibility to have a career in athletics as well as a family. He also went over the struggles that many people face in a career in athletics. "Having a career in athletics doesn't mean you'll make tons of money," Goynes took from his presentation.  "If you're passionate about it, you'll find a way to make it work despite salary and other sacrifices." 

Goynes said that her favorite part of the trip was being able to see a presentation from the architects that built the Oregon basketball arena - Matthew Knight Arena - including the blueprints that went into making the final product. "It's one of the best sports facilities in the country, " Goynes said. "It was really special to receive that presentation."

"This trip was really refreshing," Goynes said as she reflected on her experience. "I was able to meet so many student-athletes that were not only athletic, but intelligent and friendly as well. It really speaks true to the NCAA and who they are because there are so many athletes that can make a difference in the world."