Vanguard University

The athlete:  Nicole returns for her third and final season at Vanguard…All-GSAC player for the Lions in 2001…missed several games last season due to a concussion…transferred to VU from Long Beach State…strong central defender/midfielder…rocket outside shot…intense player with a great work ethic…her intensity will help drive the team this season…worked hard in the off season to become a great playmaker…extremely competitive leader who will be a major key to the Lions’ success in 2002.

The person:  Nicole was born in Fontana, California on June 12, 1980…parents are John and Susan Avila…one of three children…teammates call her “Nick” for short…senior in Liberal Studies…favorite movie is “A Beautiful Mind”…sports hero is Michelle Akers-Stahl…roots for the LA Galaxy…likes to eat Mexican food…favorite color is green…enjoys hanging out with family and friends…feels hatred is the biggest problem in the world…has learned that you don’t always get what you want in life…athletics has taught her that hard work and dedication can lead to success…wants to become a high school teacher.

Her thoughts:  I came to Vanguard to get an education and to play soccer.  I really like the people at VU, and feel the presence of God on campus.