Kianna Perez found the back of the net in the 58th minute of Monday’s Class A Soccer State Championship for what proved to be the game-winner for Lincoln Southwest.
The Silver Hawks defeated Omaha Marian 2-1 to repeat as Class A champions. Perez, a Nebraska signee, was the only one credited with a goal in the match as the other two were scored as own goals.
Southwest went 18-1 in each of the past two seasons to capture back-to-back state titles, capping a career for Perez that included plenty of triumphs as well as some significant adversity.
The midfielder totaled 48 goals and 36 assists in her career including 19 goals and 23 assists as a senior this year.
Throughout her soccer career, Perez said that her mother, Britanni Perez, has always been in her corner cheering her on. Kianna has a tattoo of her mom’s birthday to show appreciation for all that her mom has done for her.
“I recently got it for Mother’s Day as a surprise,” Perez told Hurrdat Sports. “I wanted to do something special for my mom because she has been my biggest supporter forever. My mom didn’t play, but she has been at every game and tournament supporting me. She encourages me and pushes me to continue playing the sport I love.”
In 2022, Perez suffered an ACL tear, ending her sophomore season. Although this injury was difficult, she said that her mom’s constant support helped her throughout the recovery process.
“My mom was the person by my side throughout my ACL recovery and pushed me to follow my dream of playing for the Huskers,” Perez said. “Everyone knows every game I look for my mom in the stands, and she’s always there. She’s definitely been the most important person in my life, and I give her all the thank yous for my soccer career.”
Although she faced some adversity, her mom’s support is what helped her get to where she is today. The senior said she credits her mom for always believing in her and helping her reach her dreams.
“I faced many challenges and obstacles throughout my career, but my mom was always there for support, advice, and encouragement,” Perez said. “She never doubted me, and even after I doubted myself, she reminded me why I play soccer and continued to encourage my dream of playing at Nebraska. Every game I play for my mom, I want to always make her proud.”
Perez will be staying local as she will attend Nebraska in the fall. She wore a red ribbon in her hair at state soccer, which she said was to honor her future team.
“It’s just kind of an indication that I’m going to be continuing on to Nebraska,” Perez said. “I’m really excited, so thankful for the opportunity and I’m just really excited to take it from a Lincoln native to go to Nebraska.”
The future Husker has a lot of pride for the state she was raised in. She said that she is ready to wear the Nebraska N.
“It means so much,” Perez said. “I’ve worked for it for so long. There’s not many, so it’s kind of an honor really. Everyone knows you and I’m really excited.”
