Junior Maxine Goynes is a leader on the soccer field and in the classroom

When the alarm clock goes off at 5:00 am for your early morning workouts what is it that motivates you to get out of bed?

I always remind myself of just how much sacrifice and work I have already put in to be here at SCU. When I was in high school I used to commute 3 days a week in heavy traffic to and from Pleasanton. My family sacrificed a great deal financially in order for me travel to tournaments and get recruited. Therefore, I feel that it is my job to wake up and get my business (strength and conditioning) done.

What role does your family play in supporting you as a student athlete?

My family members are my number one fans. I know that they support me emotionally, physically and mentally whether we win or lose. I think I most appreciate my family because they let me know that even if I don't play a minute that I am still a student athlete, which is something they could not be more proud of.

How have your teammates affected your growth over the past three years?

My teammates have allowed me to be vulnerable and learn while being a member of this team. They have taught me that every individual does have both strengths and weakness, and that in order to get better individually and as a team we have to hold one another accountable and push each other to face our weaknesses.

Has soccer taught you any values or principles that are valuable off the field as well?

Soccer has taught me that on or off the field I have to demonstrate great leadership, focus and discipline. It has taught me that the smallest details really do matter to the larger picture of whatever it is you are trying to accomplish. It has also taught me that everything is not always fun, but some obstacles must be overcome in order to accomplish the goal.

What kind of legacy do you hope to leave at Santa Clara?

I hope when I leave Santa Clara that athletes hailing from small towns similar to mine believe they have the opportunity to become something larger. I hope any athlete who was told they weren't good enough will fight to get better like I have and make a difference on their team.